Tooth sensitivity can be a temporary discomfort or become a constantly recurring pain when eating hot or cold, sweet or salty foods, or when chewing.
We have already told you in some of our blog articles about how to improve sensitivity at home with different toothpastes and gels. In addition to hygiene at home, we can also help you in the dental practice by applying more effective products. Depending on the cause, your dentist or hygienist will choose the most suitable one.
What is causing my sensitivity?
It may be that the tooth sensitivity is temporary, or that it is due to a real problem with a tooth, and this pain can be used as an indication that the tooth is not sensitive. alert. In these cases, household products would not work and we would need to treat the tooth so that it does not lead to bigger problems, such as
- Caries which can be caused by poor hygiene technique, bad eating habits, poor positioning of the teeth, or even genetic factors.
- Cracks caused by bruxismThe teeth can be caused by a tooth that is missing, traumatisms, or the absence of a tooth that prevents us from biting properly.
- Inflamation of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) due to excessive plaque build-up caused by improper brushing technique, but genetic or hormonal factors are also influenced.
- Recessions gum and bone loss. Excessively vigorous brushing can cause gum loss and expose the root of the tooth, making it more sensitive.
- Bruxism or night clenching can cause fisures, but it can also wear down the teeth and make them more sensitive.
- Abrasion enamel damage due to excessive consumption of acidic or carbonated beverages or foods.
- Old fillings ill-fitting or damaged.
And what is the solution?
There could be several solutions, and will depend on the origin of that sensitivity, from a dental cleaning, to a filling or the application of specific products for sensitivity. These are gels or varnishes that are only used in the clinic as they contain a higher concentration of desensitising compounds than those that can be found in pharmacies. It is a simple and quick application, in which the product is left to act for between 1 and 5 minutes, with immediate improvement, and can be applied approximately every 3 months in the clinic.
How to prevent tooth sensitivity?
There are actions that can help us prevent the onset of sensitivity, simple changes such as modificating some hygiene habits and techniques. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- - Take care of your diet, and avoid regular consumption of acidic, sugary foods and carbonated beverages.
- - Learn the right way to brush, avoiding damaging your gums and using the right products such as a soft or medium hard toothbrush. If you use an electric toothbrush, choose one with a pressure sensor.
- - The treatment for bruxism, or nighttime clenching, is the mouthguard, which will help protect your teeth during the night.
- - If your teeth are misaligned, orthodontic treatment will balance your bite so that the forces are spread evenly across your teeth.
- - Avoid abusing whitening products at home. Toothpastes with a whitening effect are often very abrasive.
Remember that teeth do not have to hurt, see if it is a sporadic discomfort that improves in a few days, otherwise see a specialist.