There’s nothing worse than waking up with a sudden tooth ache. Everything seems to be going well until you drink a glass of cold water or sip on a mug of hot chocolate only to feel a stab of pain in your mouth.
A study by the International Dental Journal found that over 50 percent of adults between the ages of 20 and 50 experience varying levels of tooth sensitivity on a regular basis. Luckily, you don’t always need to visit a dentist to fix this issue. So, how can you get rid of tooth sensitivity in a quick, easy way? Let’s begin by learning about the causes of tooth sensitivity.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity doesn’t always mean that you have a cavity. Here are some of the most common reasons why you may find yourself nursing a toothache:
- Tooth decay (cavities)
- Fractured teeth
- Worn out fillings
- Advanced gum disease
- Tooth enamel that is wearing away
- Exposed tooth root
- Lifelong sensitivity issues
No matter the cause, there are simple, effective ways to get rid of tooth sensitivity or get it under control until you can visit a dental specialist.
Use Proper Brushing Techniques
The best way to prevent dental issues is to brush your teeth correctly. Most people apply too much pressure, use extremely hard toothbrushes or brush vigorously soon after eating acidic foods (which is something you must always avoid!). Brushing with the wrong technique and with abrasive brushes can wear away the protective enamel coating on your teeth. The thinner the enamel coating your teeth, the more sensitive your teeth will feel.
Opt for a Desensitizing Toothpaste
There are now many different toothpastes on the market which are made specifically for people with sensitive teeth. Most of these pastes contain an active ingredient like strontium chloride or potassium nitrate which block pain signals to sensitive nerves inside the teeth. Keep in mind that desensitizing toothpastes take several weeks of regular use before showing results, so you need to be patient!
Wear A Mouthguard at Night
Times are stressful! If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity it is possible that you are grinding your teeth at night or when under stress. Grinding your teeth also wears away tooth enamel. You have two options: First, do your best to stop clenching your jaw or visit a dental specialist. You should also get yourself a custom mouth guard to wear while sleeping.
Address Periodontal Issues Immediately
So, you’ve tried fixing your brushing technique, tried a new toothpaste, and still, no results. It is possible that your teeth feel sensitive because of an untreated issue with your gums. Receding gums can expose the roots of your teeth. A visit to a dental specialist can help restore your gum line.
Emergency Dentist in Melbourne
At King Street Dental, we offer state-of-the-art emergency services for every kind of dental emergency. Contact us today for more information on painless dental procedures for children, sleep dentistry and custom-made mouthguards and veneers.