What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
The first step is to determine what is causing your teeth to be sensitive. This could be due to several factors such as:
- Acidic foods and drinks
- Worn dental fillings
- Gum recession
- Brushing too hard
- Periodontal disease
- Teeth grinding
2. Avoid Triggers
Once you know the cause of your sensitive teeth, you can take steps to avoid the triggers. For example, you can:
- Avoid acidic foods and drinks such as citrus fruits, soda, and coffee.
- Be gentle when brushing your teeth and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
- Avoid grinding your teeth.
3. Dental Treatment
If your sensitive teeth are caused by a dental problem such as a worn dental filling or gum recession, you will need to see a dentist for treatment. Your dentist may recommend:
- A new dental filling
- A root canal
- Gum grafting surgery
4. Home Remedies
Some home remedies that can help to relieve sensitive teeth include:
- Using a saltwater rinse
- Applying a cold compress to your face
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
5. When to See a Dentist
If your sensitive teeth do not improve with home remedies or after a few days, you should see a dentist. This is especially important if your sensitivity is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, swelling, or bleeding gums.