There are many reasons your teeth might be sensitive, and most people who experience this pain want to know how to stop sensitive teeth pain immediately. Let’s look at some reasons people have sensitive teeth and what they can do to stop it.
The Symptoms of Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive teeth symptoms are very clear, and you will feel them immediately — especially if you eat or drink something hot or cold. If you feel pain in your jaws or teeth while chewing or biting down, this is another symptom of sensitive teeth. Some symptoms of sensitive teeth are mild, but they are still uncomfortable.
The Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Teeth sensitivity is very common in adults. Some studies estimate that one in eight adults in the United States have sensitive teeth. Teeth sensitivity occurs for many reasons. Although curing it immediately is the goal for many people, this will not address the permanent issue. Our teeth are primarily made up of dentin, which is surrounded by a protective layer of enamel. When that layer is compromised, for whatever reason, oversensitive dentin makes itself known.
Many factors contribute to tooth sensitivity, but some of the most common include tooth decay, older fillings, receding gums, worn tooth enamel and exposed tooth roots. Some other causes of tooth sensitivity include the following:
- Brushing you teeth with a toothbrush with firm bristles that can damage the gums and enamel of your teeth, leading to sensitive teeth.
- Rinsing with mouthwash after brushing is part of a healthy oral healthcare routine, but there can be too much of a good thing. When you use mouthwash for extra time beyond what is recommended, the acids it contains can lead to tooth sensitivity.
- Eating acidic foods can damage the tooth enamel and weaken the gums, which can expose the inner layer of your teeth. When this happens, you also expose the nerve center, which can lead to painful tooth sensitivity.
- Over-the-counter teeth whitening treatment. Many people who use store-bought teeth whitening kits or strips often experience sensitive teeth afterward.
- Teeth grinding, also referred to as bruxism, can cause major tooth sensitivity. Teeth grinding damage happens slowly, creating tiny cracks in the teeth over time.
How To Stop Sensitive Teeth Pain Immediately
If you have sensitive teeth pain, you should talk to your dentist. While waiting for your appointment to address the problem of sensitive teeth immediately, you can try the following:
- Use desensitizing toothpaste: These contain materials that will fill in exposed areas of the dentin. They are available over-the-counter.
- Rinse your mouth with saltwater: Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in 1/2 cup of warm water, then swish for 15 to 30 seconds.
- Make sure you have cleaned your entire mouth thoroughly: Double-check to ensure there are no food particles stuck between your teeth.
You should also be sure to replace your toothbrush regularly. Most dentists recommend you replace it every four months. Use a soft-bristled brush and brush gently.
How To Prevent Tooth Sensitivity
As with most things related to your oral health, preventing the problem in the first place is the best solution. There are steps you can take to keep your teeth from becoming sensitive, including the following:
- Don’t brush with a heavy hand. This can damage the tooth enamel and tender gum tissue.
- Avoid eating too many acidic foods: These include drinking sodas and eating oranges and grapefruits.
- Stay away from acidic mouthwash and avoid using mouthwash for longer than the directions indicate.
- Avoid chewing hard foods and skip biting down on hard candy, jawbreakers and ice, which can all damage the teeth.
- Keep sugar consumption to a minimum. It can soften the tooth enamel and leave the dentin below vulnerable to sensitivity.
- Keep gums healthy. This will avoid gum recession, which can expose sensitive tooth roots.
- Use a mouth guard at night. If you are grinding your teeth at night, sleep with a mouth guard to protect your teeth from damage.
- Visit your dentist regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Visit West Coast Dental
You don’t have to live with teeth sensitivity. So, be sure to ask your dentist for advice if you are experiencing this painful condition. Contact the team at West Coast Dental today at 888-329-8111.
Sources
WebMD – 1 in 8 Adults May Have Sensitive Teeth
Mayo Clinic – What Causes Sensitive Teeth and How Can I Treat Them?
Healthline – Why Are My Teeth So Sensitive?
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