Tooth Sensitivity in Maryland
Do you cringe after drinking ice water on a hot day or having some nice hot chocolate after being outside in the snow? Maybe the cold air outside hurt your teeth after you breathed in with your mouth. If so, you probably have sensitive teeth. It’s nothing unusual; one in eight Americans have sensitive teeth at some point. Fortunately, you can get help from your dentist in Maryland so you don’t have to worry about enjoying hot or cold treats and hurting your teeth.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
A breakdown in the enamel of a tooth causes tooth sensitivity. The middle layer, the dentin, enjoys the protection of enamel if it’s intact. The dentin has microscopic tubes that connect to the pulp, the location of the nerves that trigger pain. Once the enamel is compromised, you can experience tooth sensitivity.
Additionally, if you have gum disease and receding gums, the part of your tooth usually covered by the gums does not have enamel protecting the dentin. It has a substance called cementum, which isn't as hard as enamel and can wear away easily. This can also cause sensitivity.
What Do I Do That Makes My Teeth Sensitive?
You Can:
- Brush too vigorously - Most people know that toothbrushing is a good thing to maintain their oral health. However, you can actually erode the enamel on your teeth with a hard toothbrush and excessive scrubbing. It's hard to believe that brushing too forcibly or too often is bad, but it is. You can also use a mouthwash that is too acidic and can harm your teeth. Always follow your dentist's instructions for caring for your teeth at home.
- Get regular dental exams - If you see the same dentist in Maryland, he or she will understand your dental history and notice any changes quickly. For example, your regular dentist will always check existing fillings and make sure they are intact. If you also get your teeth cleaned before each exam, your dental hygienist can go over proper brushing techniques and reinforce good habits.
- Listen if your dentist says you may grind your teeth at night - People may not realize they have this problem if no one hears them sleep. If you are grinding your teeth, invest a a nighttime mouthguard. This can protect your teeth from further damage to the enamel.
- Watch your diet - Too many acidic foods and drinks can damage your enamel. If you like sodas, energy drinks and red wine, use a straw to limit the acids exposure to your teeth. If you eat acidic foods, do so at a meal, not alone.
- Do not go overboard on teeth whitening - If you don't like the color of your teeth, and products you can use at home are not producing the results you desire, see your dentist. Don't double up on treatments or use them in any way that goes against the directions provided.
What Types of Treatment Are Available for Tooth Sensitivity?
At Dental One Associates of Maryland, we have solutions, but you will need to see our dentist in Maryland first. Effective treatments are ones that aim to address the reason why your teeth are sensitive. Our dentist can examine your teeth and look for decay, hairline fractures you cannot see and signs of gum disease. Having these issues addressed can end your sensitivity.
Next, our dentist will look for any signs that you grind your teeth at night. You may not even know you're doing it. If you are, he or she can create a custom nightguard for you that will protect your teeth until you can address the issues making you grind your teeth. It will stop enamel erosion.
Some people have naturally thin enamel, either due to genetics or aging. Your dentist can offer fluoride treatments and suggest a fluoride mouthwash to help strengthen your enamel. In some cases, dental sealants or bonding agents can protect especially vulnerable teeth.
In the meantime, your dentist will likely suggest one of the toothpastes on the market for sensitive teeth. These can take a few weeks to work, though. Contact us today to get the help you need so you can start consuming the foods and beverages you crave without pain.
What Can I Do About Preventing Teeth Sensitivity?
You can:
- Maintain a schedule of regular, routine dental exams.
- Limit your consumption of acidic foods and drinks, like sports drinks, citrus fruits and juices, coffee and more. If you do consume them, wait to brush for at least 30 minutes.
- Always use a toothbrush with soft bristles and use a gentle circular motion. Never brush across. If you use mouthwash, pick one with fluoride and one that is alcohol-free.
- If your dentist says you need to wear a mouthguard at night, wear it. He or she can fabricate a custom one for you that is comfortable to wear. It will protect your tooth enamel and help prevent you from wearing down your teeth in general.
- Don't keep using teeth whitening kits or toothpastes you can buy in local stores if they are not working for you. Talk to your dentist about safe teeth whitening treatments. While your teeth may be sensitive after an in-office teeth whitening treatment, your dentist will tell you what to expect and ho to minimize the discomfort.
Is There Affordable Dental Care in Maryland?
At Dental One Associates of Maryland, our dentist in Maryland provides the affordable care you need for sensitive teeth and other dental issues. We are very welcoming and gladly accept new patients. You'll find a relaxed setting where you will feel that you have found a new dental home. As always, we strive to provide affordable dental care without sacrificing the quality of the services we provide.
Contact our dental office in Maryland today to arrange for an appointment. We look forward to meeting you.
