If you regularly avoid hot or cold drinks because they hurt your teeth, you might have tooth sensitivity. While this condition is common among our patients, it’s usually not permanent. Today, we want to talk about some reasons why you might have tooth sensitivity and explain how Dr. Lambeth treats it.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
You likely have tooth sensitivity because some of your tooth enamel has worn away. Tooth enamel may be the hardest surface in your body, but it’s not invincible. It can be damaged by poor hygiene, bleaching, and trauma to the tooth. It can also gradually weaken as you age. When tooth enamel becomes damaged or weakened, it can expose the delicate inner surface of the tooth. This leads to increased tooth sensitivity.
How Can I Strengthen My Tooth Enamel?
Tooth enamel isn’t living tissue, so you can’t regrow it. However, there is a way to strengthen it. Fluoride fortifies tooth enamel and helps fight tooth decay through a process called remineralization. If you have tooth sensitivity, our team often recommends using a fluoride-containing toothpaste or rinse to strengthen the tooth.
How Can I Avoid Tooth Sensitivity?
There’s a good chance that your lifestyle habits are contributing to your tooth sensitivity without your knowledge! For example, vigorous tooth brushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can actually damage tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity. Instead, gently brush your teeth with a soft-bristled brush for a full two minutes. Poor oral hygiene can make teeth susceptible to acid from oral bacteria, creating sensitivity. Avoid or limit your intake of sugary foods, and make sure you’re brushing and flossing every day. Bleaching your teeth can also break down your tooth enamel over time. Take a break from bleaching before you further damage your tooth enamel.
In most cases, alleviating tooth sensitivity is as simple as changing your habits. To ask our team any questions or to schedule an appointment, call us today!
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