Sensitive teeth make eating a painful experience. Fortunately, your Hasbrouck Heights, NJ, dentist. Dr. Jeffrey Mason offers treatments that can reduce sensitivity.
6 reasons your teeth may be sensitive
Sensitivity can be caused by:
- Enthusiastic Brushing: Your brushing technique could be wearing away your tooth enamel, exposing the more sensitive dentin layer of teeth. Brushing too hard, not using your brush at a 45-degree angle, or using a hard brush could result in damage to your enamel. Once the dentin layer is exposed, eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods can cause tooth pain.
- Receding Gums: Your sensitive tooth roots are normally protected by gum tissue. If your gums begin to recede due to gum disease, aging, or brushing your teeth too hard, you'll experience sensitivity.
- Drinking and Eating Acidic Foods and Beverages: Foods and drinks that contain acids, such as soda and sour candy, can weaken tooth enamel and increase your risk of sensitive teeth.
- Grinding: Grinding your teeth while you sleep can erode your tooth enamel, causing sensitivity.
- Teeth Whitening: You may notice sensitivity after you whiten your teeth. If you experience pain after whitening at home, professional whitening at the Hasbrouck Heights, NJ, dental office may be a better choice. Your dentist will protect your gums and roots with a protective gel and can change the strength of the whitening agent to decrease sensitivity.
- An Issue with Your Teeth: Tooth sensitivity can also be caused by a crack in your tooth, a loose filling, or a cavity.
What you can do to reduce sensitivity
Toothpaste made especially for sensitive teeth may be helpful. Using a toothbrush with soft bristles and limiting acidic foods and drinks can prevent further damage to your tooth enamel. Repairing cracks, replacing loose or damaged fillings, and treating cavities can stop tooth sensitivity. If your teeth have become sensitive due to grinding, wearing a nightguard while you sleep is a must.
Your dentist can also offer treatments that can reduce sensitivity, including:
- Desensitizing products applied to your teeth
- Sealants to cover exposed dentin
- Fillings to protect roots exposed by receding gums
- Fluoride gels and varnishes to strengthen tooth enamel and decrease sensitivity
Are you tired of avoiding certain foods due to your sensitive teeth? Call your dentist in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ, Dr. Mason, at (201) 288-4447 to schedule an appointment.