Dental sensitivity causes patients to experience the sensation of a toothache when coming into contact with hot or cold foods and beverages. The feeling is often described as a throbbing or stinging sensation. In some cases, patients even experience pain on particularly chilly or windy days. If tooth sensitivity has been impacting your quality of life, find out what you can do to address the issue below.

Tips for Alleviating Sensitivity in Teeth

1. Upgrade Your Brushing Routine

Many types of toothpaste are specially formulated for people with sensitive teeth. These products contain active ingredients that allow your dentin to form an extra barrier against harmful agents found in food and beverages. These agents can cause toothaches or sensitivity. Swap out your normal product for a sensitive paste, and switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush to minimize enamel wear.

2. Minimize Intake of Acidic Foods

Food and beverages that are highly acidic can wear away enamel. Once this happens, the sensitive dentin underneath becomes exposed. To prevent this issue, minimize your consumption of citrus foods and drinks, sodas, and sports beverages. If you do decide to indulge, brush your teeth 20 minutes later to reduce the acid’s effects.

3. Control Teeth Grinding

Most people are unaware of their teeth grinding habit, but if your sensitivity is accompanied by toothaches or headaches, you could be clenching and grinding your teeth in your sleep. Eliminating stress is one way to combat the issue, but you might also want to visit your dentist for a custom mouth guard which will protect your teeth in the meantime.

In some cases, tooth sensitivity could point to an issue such as an infection. This should be addressed by a dental professional. If your sensitivity persists after trying the tips above, don’t hesitate to contact the team at High Point Smile Dentistry for help. Located in Guilford County, NC, this talented dental team provides solutions for a broad range of conditions, including toothaches, periodontal disease, and chipped or missing teeth. Browse through their full list of services online or call (336) 884-4000 to schedule an appointment.