Sensitivity is caused by a weakness in the enamel, the protective coating on your teeth. Forceful brushing, biting hard objects, grinding your teeth, accidental trauma, and temperature changes can all cause tiny cracks in the enamel, wearing it away over time. If you have sensitive teeth, below are a few pieces of advice, including seeing a dentist, to minimize symptoms.

3 Tips for Dealing With Sensitive Teeth

1. Limit Triggers Until Treatment

Sensitivity occurs when outside stimuli, usually extreme temperatures, reach the tooth’s nerves or inner tissues. Until you can get lasting treatment for your sensitivity, avoid items that trigger your pain. Common ones include ice cream, hot soups, iced drinks, and hot apple cider. If you do consume a cold beverage, drinking through a straw will limit contact with your teeth. Also, avoid exposing your teeth to cold wind and air.

2. Upgrade Your Dental Care Routine

Use desensitizing toothpastes and mouthwashes that are designed to limit sensitivity symptoms. The most effective options will have an American Dental Association® seal of approval, which means they’ve been tested and are safe for use and effective. Since brushing too hard will damage enamel, be mindful when you’re brushing. If you’re worried you’re brushing too hard, some models of electronic toothbrushes have built-in pressure sensors that alert you when you’re doing so too hard.

3. Ask About Professional Dental Care Options

There are several treatments a dentist might recommend to help with sensitivity. Veneers, for instance, are thin sheets of porcelain that are cemented to the front of your tooth. Since they act as a protective barrier, they’ll replace the function of enamel to block stimuli from reaching your tooth’s inner tissues. If your enamel is badly damaged on all sides of your tooth or if that tooth is so weakened it needs more protection than veneers provide, a dental crown may be suggested instead. Crowns cover the entirety of your tooth above the gumline, which will prevent sensitivity, and they also restore a natural appearance to it while preventing the worsening of decay, cracks, and chips. Dental sealants are a fast, cost-effective option, as they’re a thin brush-on layer that keeps out bacteria and food particles, which can limit sensitivity.

Don’t let sensitivity stop you from experiencing foods you love. The dentists at Four Corners Dental Group in Anchorage, AK, will provide expert care to end your sensitivity. Whether you need a crown, veneer, or sealants, their cutting-edge facilities and knowledgeable team perform high-quality work. With a second location in Wasilla and extended hours, they offer a high level of convenience. Learn more about their practices online, and call (907) 258-3384 for an appointment with a compassionate dentist today. Call (907) 376-2790 to reach the Wasilla office.