There’s no question about it, winter is on the way. While we’re all enjoying fall right now, it’s good to be prepared for the upcoming chilly weather and winter season. That includes preparing teeth. One of the biggest issues that comes up with oral health in the winter months is tooth sensitivity. If you struggle with sensitive teeth, here are some possible reasons it happens and some things to help you control and possibly even reverse the sensitivity.
What Could Be Causing My Tooth Sensitivity?
1. You brush with too much force. It’s important to be thorough but gentle when brushing teeth. Otherwise you can damage the enamel, which is what protects them.
2. You grind your teeth. Not only can clenching and grinding teeth cause damage to enamel, but it can also cause fractures in teeth.
3. You overwhiten your teeth or use too many products such as whitening toothpaste, mouthwash and whitening strips to whiten teeth at home.
4. Your tooth is cracked, chipped or broken. Exposed nerves cause pain and sensitivity. It’s important to get them fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
What Can I Do About My Tooth Sensitivity?
1. Don’t brush teeth too hard and be sure you’re using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
2. Avoid acidic foods and drinks and hot or cold temperature extremes in foods and drinks until the sensitivity is resolved.
3. Pay attention to whether you grind or clench your teeth when you’re stressed or during sleep. It may be hard to tell while you’re asleep, but if your jaw, face or ears ache when you wake up or you have a headache first thing in the morning on a regular basis, you could be grinding teeth.
4. Stick to professional whitening treatments. With over-the-counter products, it can be hard to control quality and safety while using them. Plus, professional treatments get teeth whiter faster without causing the long-term sensitivity that many store-bought products can.
If you’re interested in finding out the exact cause of your tooth sensitivity and how you can help put an end to it, call us today at the Fort Collins Dentist at 970-221-5115.
Contact The Fort Collins Dentist Family & Implant Dentistry:
970-221-5115
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
2001 S Shields St Bldg L
Fort Collins, Colorado
80526
