5 Tips To Decrease Tooth Sensitivity

Having sensitive teeth can literally be a pain at times. You wince every time you eat ice cream or brush your teeth with too much force. Whether your sensitive teeth are due to tooth decay or aggressive toothbrushing, you can improve your condition. Here are five helpful tips to decrease tooth sensitivity:

Do not Eat Too Many Acidic Foods

When you have sensitive teeth, you should not eat too many acidic foods. The acidity from these foods can wear away your tooth enamel, making your pearly whites even more sensitive. Try to stay away from foods like pickles and oranges as much as possible. If you do eat one of these foods, drink a glass of milk afterward.

Brush Your Teeth More Carefully

It's possible that you are brushing your teeth the wrong way. If you brush your pearly whites too hard, you can aggravate the enamel and increase sensitivity. Brushing your teeth too aggressively also will not remove the plaque any better. Do your teeth a favor and brush them slowly and gently with a soft bristle toothbrush.

Wear a Mouth Guard

If you have a habit of grinding your teeth, you should think about wearing a mouth guard. It will stop you from grinding your teeth at night and protect your pearly whites from wear and tear. When you visit your dentist, ask him or her to provide you with a custom made mouthguard.

Try a Different Toothpaste

It may also be helpful to use a different toothpaste. If you try a toothpaste that is specifically designed for sensitive teeth, you may find some relief. Desensitizing toothpaste will protect the exposed dentin and prevent your teeth from hurting.

Do not Whiten Your Teeth Too Often

Professional teeth whitening can make your smile brighter, but the ingredients in these treatments can make your teeth more sensitive. That is why you should be careful not to use these treatments too often. Ask your dentist how often you should get your teeth whitened.

You do not have to deal with sensitive teeth all the time. If you follow these helpful tips, you can decrease sensitivity and feel a lot better. However, if your sensitive teeth still do not improve, you should make an appointment to see your dentist (like those at Family & Cosmetic Dentistry) soon. He or she can give you an examination and determine if a condition is causing your sensitive teeth, such as gum recession.