Sensitive teeth and gums have become a common issue among individuals of all ages. It may start as discomfort during brushing or pain when you eat or drink something cold, but it can develop into a long-term feeling of discomfort. Unfortunately, there’s no cure for oral sensitivity. You can, however, manage the symptoms by improving your brushing routine, reducing the bacteria count in your mouth, and remaining mindful of your teeth when making decisions about what you consume. Here are five tips for managing sensitive teeth:
- Talk To Your Dentist About Sensitivity Before You Have Cosmetic Treatments
Most cosmetic treatments, like teeth whitening, are safe for anyone when they are performed by a qualified professional. However, it’s worth mentioning any sensitivity issues to your practitioner before going ahead. This will keep you comfortable during your consultation, and treatment and your dentist may have new products or information on treating and managing dental sensitivity. So, make it part of your routine to mention it to any dental practitioner when you arrive.
- Improve Overall Dental Health
Improving your overall oral health can help to manage symptoms like sensitivity. By reducing bacteria in your mouth and regularly applying toothpaste that protects the enamel on your teeth, you can reduce sensitivity. Although sensitivity can’t be cured, by maintaining healthy gums through regular brushing with a soft toothbrush, your overall oral health can be improved. This slows the decline of sensitivity as a condition and can eliminate most of the symptoms. Make sure you use dentist-approved brushes to maintain your enamel.
- Consume A Probiotic-Rich Diet
Bacteria in the mouth is the cause of many oral health issues, including gingivitis. This is a condition that affects the gums, causing them to swell, become tender, and appear red and inflamed. It also causes sensitivity of the teeth. Using probiotics can help to bring about a balance as the probiotics cultures will reduce bacteria counts in the body. Studies suggest that Lactobacillus reuteri, the flora that makes up probiotics, counteracts the symptoms of gingivitis, reducing inflammation and improving sensitivity issues.
- Avoid Abrasive Dental Products
You might want the strongest toothpaste, the most mineral-rich products, and the stiffest toothbrush in order to counteract the bacteria responsible for causing sensitivity, but this might not be in your best interest. Your enamel (the coating over the teeth that protects the nerves) is easily damaged. Since it is an inorganic compound, it cannot regenerate. For that reason, it’s important to be gentle with your teeth. Brush thoroughly, getting at the full surface of each tooth every time, but gently. For build-up removal, visit your dentist, Handling it at home is not recommended.
- Use Specially-Formulated Gentle Mouthwash And Toothpaste
There are some wonderful products that are specifically designed for sensitive teeth and gums. It’s not just formulated to protect your enamel, it’s also designed to make brushing feel more comfortable and less triggering. Use a lukewarm wet toothbrush to further reduce discomfort while brushing since colder temperatures are often part of the discomfort. Products for sensitive teeth and gums contain active ingredients to desensitize the mouth while offering a thorough but gentle clean for improved overall oral health.
Finding Your Solution
Each person is unique, so finding the best way to manage your oral sensitivity might require some unique or unconventional methods. It’s a good idea to work alongside your oral hygienist or dentist as you look for new possible treatments and methods to manage your sensitivity.