As an adult my teeth have always been very sensitive. Sometimes my teeth get so sensitive that my whole mouth seems to hurt. I have trouble eating and drinking. It is an uncomfortable feeling that can last days and even weeks. According to author Karen Barrow, “Sensitive teeth are a direct result of when either your gums or the hard, protective layer of your teeth, known as the enamel, begins to wear away. This exposes the microscopic, hollow canals of your teeth, called dentin. Because they are hollow, these canals easily send sensations of hot and cold to the nerves of your teeth.” From talking with my dentist I have found out that many people have sensitive teeth. Fortunately there is help for people like me who have sensitive teeth. The American Dental Association has made some suggestions.
Brush your teeth with gentle strokes. I would often find myself brushing my teeth hard and with a toothbrush that has hard bristles. I know this never helped my teeth because as soon as I started brushing with gentle strokes the number of times my teeth were sensitive reduced.
Stay away from drinks that have citric acid. Some drinks that have citric acid are orange juice and soda. The ADA also suggests using a straw to minimize the contact your teeth has to the citric acid. My teeth always get extra sensitive when I drink lemonade. I feel the enamel often gets worn down with lemonade making my teeth sensitive.
Don’t chew ice. According to Dr. Richard Price, a dentist and spokesperson for the American Dental Association, “Ice cubes are so hard your blender needs special blades to mash them, so give you molars a break.” I just stay away from ice all together. I am always afraid that the ice not only makes my teeth sensitive but also can chip my teeth because it is so hard.
Use desensitizing toothpaste. I love Organic Dentifrice toothpaste by Shaklee. The toothpaste is made of eggshells and water. Organic Dentifrice toothpaste is completely natural and won’t harm your teeth. It doesn’t have the harsh ingredients that many name brand toothpastes do. For more information check out the link attached to this article.
Have fluoride gel applied to your teeth. Fluoride gel is wonderful in filling the holes and cracks of your teeth, which can make your mouth sensitive. Just request from your dentist to have the gel applied during your next visit. The procedure is quick and painless.
Getting a crown, filling or having your teeth bond. For very sensitive teeth your dentist may recommend getting a crown, filling or bond. A crown, filling or bond can fill the cracks in your teeth making them a lot less sensitive to foods and drinks.
Some of these tips I have used and have been very effective in reducing the sensitivity that my teeth would often feel. You can try some of the different tips and see what works best for you. Also ask your doctor for suggestions and maybe he could determine the main cause for your sensitive teeth.
Karen Burrow, “Chew On This: Soothing Sensitive Teeth.” Sacramento Bee URL: (http://sacbee.healthology.com/dental-health/dental-health-information/article352.htm)
