If you have sensitive teeth, it doesn’t necessarily mean you had poor oral hygiene habits in the past, but it does mean you need to practice great oral care techniques now. Common causes of tooth sensitivity include worn enamel from brushing too hard and tooth erosion from consuming a fairly acidic diet or grinding your teeth at night. Since sensitivity is ultimately a symptom of dental issues that make the teeth more vulnerable to damage and decay, it is essential to take good care of them. Here are a few tips from Hulse Dental in Onalaska, WI, for doing just that.

How to Care for Sensitive Teeth 

1. Use the Right Tools

People who have sensitive teeth should use toothpaste that is formulated just for them. Your dentist can recommend a paste containing strontium chloride or potassium nitrate, both of which reduce hypersensitivity. You should apply this toothpaste gently using a soft-bristled brush, and you should brush longer than usual so the active ingredients have time to engage the minerals in your saliva and strengthen dentin over time. 

2. Follow Up With Fluoride

Regular fluoride treatments are essential for those with sensitive teeth because they can strengthen your tooth enamel. To protect your teeth between oral care visits, rinse with a dentist-approved mouthwash that contains fluoride once daily. Do not use a mouthwash that your dentist does not prescribe or recommend, though, because it might contain acidic ingredients that do more harm than good. 

3. Drink Water After Eating 

For optimum oral health, those with tooth sensitivity should brush after every meal. When brushing is not possible, you can reap some of the same benefits by drinking tap water, which typically contains fluoride. The water will rinse away any lingering acid or sugar and contribute to stronger enamel in the process. Consider investing in a nice water bottle that will last, and take it with you whenever you leave the house. 

If you have sensitive teeth and are due for a professional cleaning, contact Hulse Dental in Onalaska, WI. Led by Dr. Kurt Hulse, this family dentistry practice provides comprehensive oral care for patients of all ages. For more than 20 years, they have helped families throughout the area maintain strong, beautiful smiles by treating everything from root canal infections to gum disease. You can learn more about your first visit with Dr. Hulse by visiting his website or by calling (608) 783-1306.