Although Americans are currently fighting the COVID-19 outbreak, dental issues won’t stop arising. One of the problems you may face is sensitive teeth, but with dentists temporarily closed, how should you respond? Because the last thing your dentist in Denton wants is for you to suffer unnecessarily, here are some helpful tips for dealing with tooth sensitivity. By implementing what you’ll learn coming up, you can get the relief you need while sheltering in place.
Monitor Food and Beverage Temperatures
One of the typical reasons for tooth sensitivity is worn enamel (the hard-outer layer of material that covers the teeth). Extreme temperatures can trigger sharp pain when the liquid or food particles reach the dentin, which is the sensitive layer that lies beneath the enamel. To prevent any discomfort, make sure any liquids or foods you consume are room temperature, and brush your teeth with lukewarm water.
Cut Back on the Sweets
Snacks high in sugar can trigger pain when eaten. That’s because sugar can be quite acidic when it starts to breakdown. Thus, if you have sensitive teeth, it’s best to stay away from candies, desserts, sodas, and chewy and sticky treats.
One way to satisfy a sweet craving without having to endure the negative side effects is to consume sugar-free items like:
- Chocolate-covered nuts
- Sugar-free cookies that are sweetened with stevia or xylitol
- Home-made energy bars that incorporate natural ingredients like non-acidic fruits
Keep Your Teeth Clean
Once you discover any tooth sensitivity, you should commit to stepping up your oral hygiene. By preventing any food or beverage debris from lingering, you can slow down the growth of oral bacteria that could trigger a pain sensation. This can also help to maintain your enamel and prevent cavity development.
Perform Careful Oral Hygiene
When your teeth are sensitive, cleaning them vigorously can make matters worse. Therefore, you should use a toothbrush with soft bristles and move back-and-forth with gentle strokes. You can also look for toothpaste that is specially designed for sensitive teeth, which means it will contain less abrasives.
Steer Clear of the Acids
Sugar isn’t the only source of acid. Here are some items to avoid if you have sensitive teeth:
- Wine
- Yogurt
- Orange juice
- Carbonated drinks
- Other citrus fruits and juices
If your tooth sensitivity turns into a dental emergency, (acute, lingering pain), then your local dentist will be available to provide the emergency care you need. However, if your sensitivity is activity driven, then you can implement what you’ve learned here to prevent any discomfort. The moment dentists are able to fully re-open, it’s important that you seek treatment so that you can fully recover.
About the Author
Dr. Todd Balington earned his dental degree from the prestigious Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine. For over a decade, he has been helping his patients overcome any challenges and restore their oral health to normal. After the COVID-19 crisis is tackled, Dr. Balington will be available to once again provide the expert care he’s known for at Denton Dental Center. He can be reached for more information through his website.