Having sensitive teeth can be frustrating, especially when you are wanting to sit back, relax and enjoy your favourite foods (especially with all the fantastic choices in Winnipeg. Have you tried Peg’s Bistro or Little Bones???). Tooth sensitivity can be confusing, and we often believe that eliminating specific foods from our diet is a simple solution to avoiding discomfort. Although this may seem effective, you might be ignoring the root cause.
Our teeth and gums are surrounded by different protective layers. The enamel and cementum are the first and second layer, which protects the dentin and nerves. Wear, tear, chips and broken teeth primarily affect those first two layers. But eventually, the dentin layer can be exposed, and this is when you start feeling increased sensitivity to hot or cold food and beverages. The best way to not get sensitive teeth is to take care of them. Here are some easy tips for that:
· Brush your teeth gently
· Limit consumption of acidic or sugary foods (and rinse your mouth with water between meals to wash away the acids and sugars)
· Wear a night guard if you clench or grind teeth during sleep
· Schedule regular dental appointments and as soon as you feel discomfort
Already have sensitive teeth?
Treatment
Treatment for your tooth sensitivity depends on the severity. In mild cases, incorporating products such as desensitizing toothpaste or having fluoride gel applied can help improve the condition of the damaged protective layers.
More severe cases would likely require looking into different procedures such as bonding or using a crown. In some cases, surgery may also be an option.
If you suspect you may be suffering from tooth sensitivity, book an appointment at Kildonan Crossing Dental Center to look into the best solution for your teeth. Our clinic is always accepting new patients!