Sensitive teeth can result in severe discomfort and pain when your teeth are exposed to sweet or sour, extreme temperature or even pressure. This sensation is experienced due to the wearing away of enamel which exposes the inner surface of the tooth – dentin. Dentin contains tiny channels (tubules) which are connected to the nerves inside your teeth; so, upon exposure of dentin, the nerve can be stimulated by the smallest of sensations, leading to discomfort associated with sensitivity. With vast amounts of people suffering from this uncomfortable condition, here are some of the ways that can help you deal with it:
1. Keep those chompers clean
Plaque is that gummy, white stuff that covers your teeth when you forget to brush and it produces an acid that irritates your teeth, especially if you’re already suffering from sensitivity. Flossing, brushing and mouthwash twice a day keep will the plaque at bay.
2. Bring on the (desensitising) agents!
Desensitising agents, such as Sensodyne toothpaste, are available over the counter from your pharmacy and even supermarkets. They work by blocking the tiny channels in your teeth that expose the sensitive core of your tooth. Apply the toothpaste or agent to the sensitive areas of your teeth where it should be left for 30 minutes before cleaning. 30 minutes may sound a little impractical but doing this before going to bed to allow the desensitising toothpaste to soak properly into your teeth. You should start to notice reduced sensitivity after a few weeks.
3. Use a fluoride rinse
If a desensitising agent does not work, it might be work trying out a high-fluoride mouthwash. These are available in most pharmacies and supermarkets and can provide a lot of relief for sensitive teeth. For optimal results, use them twice a day as your would a normal mouthwash ie rinse for 30 seconds before spitting out. Fluoride rinses will also take time before you notice the benefits.
4. Say no to acid!
Acidic foods, such as fruit juices and fizzy drinks, can wear away the enamel on your teeth, so it’s best to regulate acidic food to a moderate intake. One tip would be to use a straw in order to help the drink go to the back of our mouth, thus limiting the contact between the drink and your teeth.
5. It’s dentist time!
If you’re really in pain and nothing helps, there are a few things your dentist can do for you. Depending on the cause of the sensitivity, your dentist may be able to paint special fluoride gels, varnishes or rinses on the affected area to strengthen tooth enamel. Also, if receding gums are the cause of your sensitivity, you dentist may be able to place a sealant around the root of your tooth. It’s best to talk to your dentist and agree an appropriate treatment plan.
Find a Dentists Near Your Military Installation:
Wiesbaden Area:
Dr. med. dent. Cornelius Nord – www.implantologie-wiesbaden.de
Dr. Charles A. Smith – www.heidelbergdentistry.com
Wiesbaden Dental Care – www.wiesbadendental.com
Stuttgart Area:
Dr. Reinhard Winkelmann – www.oxidio.com/welcome
Dr. Petra Bagusche-Gericke – www.dr-bagusche.de
Dr. Charles A. Smith – www.heidelbergdentistry.com
Kaiserslautern Area:
Dr. Charles A. Smith – www.heidelbergdentistry.com
Dr. T. Hager, D.M.D. – www.hagerdental.com
Ramstein Dental Care – www.ramsteindental.com
Praxis Dr. Dillon – www.dillonortho.com
Dr. Matthias Christ MD, DDS – Hölzengraben 2, 67657 Kaiserslautern
Dentistry 4 Kidz – Kaiserstrasse 171, 66849 Landstuhl
Dr. Bernard Doryumu – www.drdoryumu.de
Dr. K. Klos-Friedel – Hauptstrasse 28a, 67685 Weilerbach
Dres. Ripplinger – www.kfo-ramstein.de
Ewald Dental – www.ewald-dental.de
Stefan Peters MD, DDS – www.mkg-peters.de
Dr. med. Dent. Stefan Schmitt – www.dr-stefan-schmitt.de
