You Don’t Have to Live with Sensitive Teeth.

Sensitive teeth come from an exposed soft layer called dentin, which connects the roots to the nerve. When food reaches the dentin nerve, the result is sensitivity. Before you can use products like Invisalign or get cosmetic procedures to improve the look of your smile, it’s important to fix health issues like sensitivity or its many causes, including periodontal disease, cracks, and worn enamel. Before problems develop, though, you can prevent them with the right maintenance and the help of your local dentist in London, Ontario.

• Stick with the standard methods of oral hygiene: regular brushing, flossing, and mouthwash are always your first defense against problems.

• Change the type of toothbrush you typically use. Hard or firm bristled toothbrushes cause sensitivity as the bristles wear down gums and expose dentin. Instead, use a soft bristled toothbrush. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention claims that three out of four people do not change toothbrushes.
  nearly often enough. They recommend changing every two to three months to get the most out of brushing. For sensitive teeth, consider using a softer toothbrush. Since several brands exist, test each one until you find the product that works for you.

• Use fluoridated floss and mouthwash, too. Fluoride decreases sensitivity more than tartar control and other brands.

• Some brush hard thinking they’ll get more tartar and plaque off that way. Others brush fast and vigorously because they are in a hurry. Regardless, slow down and brush carefully. Brush around the gum line in a back and forth motion to preserve gum tissue. This method provides the same results as brushing hard; the difference is you won’t damage your teeth doing so.

• Avoid bad habits that damage enamel such as grinding. Stop from grinding by wearing a mouth guard at night.

• Smart Smile, a dental clinic in London, Ontario, says that sensitive teeth may the result of worn fillings, decay, cracks, worn out enamel. Acidic foods and drinks such as pop, lemons, and oranges can cause decay and erosion. Cold foods like ice cream and hot items like coffee are important to watch out for as well. The American Dental Hygientists’ Association recommends alternative snacks like carrots and apples. If acidic foods are unavoidable, minimize the contact by using straws and drinking milk. Stop by www.smartsmile.ca to learn more about how you can treat and avoid sensitivity.

Unfortunately, sensitive teeth can happen to anyone. Before Invisalign or another cosmetic procedure, it’s urgent to check with your dentist first. Let her examine your mouth for its current condition. Be honest about your real habits and be sure to speak up about any issues you feel. Listen to her suggestions about oral care and follow them to the letter. You may require solutions such as surgical gum grafts to cover exposed roots or bonding to fix decay, all available from London’s Smart Smile. In addition, continue routine checkups every six months. Don’t wait to deal with your pain; call a dentist in London today.