How to Deal With Sensitive Teeth

Protect Your Smile With Our Bridgeville Dentist’s Tips

Do you experience pain or discomfort when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods? You may have sensitive teeth, a common dental issue affecting millions of people worldwide. Fortunately, there are ways to manage tooth sensitivity and improve oral health.

In this guide, our Bridgeville dentists will explore the causes of sensitive teeth, preventive measures, treatment options, and more. Call (412) 221-9440 to get in touch with Dr. Dr. Wayne DiBartola and the dentists at DiBartola Dental to learn more. 

Understanding the Causes of Sensitive Teeth

Tooth sensitivity can occur when the protective layer of your teeth, called enamel, wears down or when the gums recede, exposing the sensitive root of the tooth. Some common causes of sensitive teeth include:

• Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush
• Grinding or clenching your teeth
• Gum disease or gingivitis
• Tooth decay or cavities
• Eating acidic or sugary foods and drinks
• Using teeth whitening products
• Dental procedures such as root canal treatment or fillings

Preventing Tooth Sensitivity

Preventive measures in Bridgeville can help reduce the risk of tooth sensitivity, including:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently in circular motions
• Use desensitizing toothpaste that contains fluoride and potassium nitrate
• Use a mouthguard if you grind or clench your teeth
• Avoid acidic or sugary foods and drinks
• Limit alcohol intake and quit smoking
• Practice stress management techniques to prevent teeth grinding

Treating Sensitive Teeth

If you already have sensitive teeth, there are several treatment options in Bridgeville available. Some of the most effective treatment methods for sensitive teeth include:

• Desensitizing toothpaste: These contain compounds that help to block the transmission of pain signals from the tooth nerve to the brain.
• Fluoride treatments: Fluoride helps strengthen the tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity.
• Dental Bonding: A thin layer of resin is applied to the teeth to cover the exposed root and protect the tooth from further damage.
• Root canal therapy: In severe cases, when the tooth nerve is damaged, root canal treatment may be necessary to remove the damaged tissue and restore the tooth.

Lifestyle Changes

Certain lifestyle changes can also help alleviate tooth sensitivity, such as:

• Reduce stress levels through relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake
• Wear a mouthguard at night to prevent teeth-grinding
• Avoid clenching your teeth or biting your nails

Dietary Habits

What you eat can also affect your oral health. When it comes to diet and dental health, keep the following things in mind:

• Eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables
• Limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks
• Drink plenty of water to help rinse away bacteria and food particles
• Avoid snacking frequently between meals, which can increase the risk of tooth decay

Best Practices for Oral Care

To ensure you don’t experience tooth sensitivity, you should practice good oral hygiene habits for overall dental health. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. You should also floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth. 

The dentists at DiBartola Dental recommend mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Visit Dr. Dr. Wayne DiBartola for regular checkups and cleanings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is tooth sensitivity a serious condition? 

Tooth sensitivity is usually not a serious condition, but it can be uncomfortable and affect your quality of life. It may indicate underlying dental problems such as tooth decay or gum disease, so it’s ideal to speak to your dentist if you experience tooth sensitivity. With proper care and treatment, tooth sensitivity can be managed effectively.

Can tooth sensitivity be cured? 

While tooth sensitivity can’t be cured completely, it can be managed with proper dental care and lifestyle changes. Treatment options such as desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride treatments, bonding, and root canal therapy can relieve and improve oral health. 

How long does it take to see improvement with treatment?

The time it takes to see improvement with treatment varies depending on the severity of your tooth sensitivity and the type of treatment you receive. Desensitizing toothpaste can provide immediate relief, but other treatments may take several weeks or months to take effect.

Ditch Tooth Sensitivity for Good — Let’s Start!

If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, speak to our Bridgeville dentist at DiBartola Dental to determine the underlying cause and explore treatment options. Don’t let tooth sensitivity affect your daily life – schedule an appointment with your dentist today. With proper care and treatment, you can manage tooth sensitivity effectively and improve your overall dental health.

Call (412) 221-9440 to learn more and schedule an appointment.