Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common forms of discomfort, and it can mean a lot of different things for everyone. The good news, though, is that many people can often find relief from tooth sensitivity by taking better care of their teeth and oral health at home, before it becomes serious enough to require professional attention and treatment. Today, we examine a few steps you can take to improve the strength and integrity of your teeth, and resolve one of the most common causes of sensitive teeth.
Clean your teeth better every day
The weakening of your tooth enamel, which is the protective layer of minerals that surrounds your teeth, is one of the most common precursors to chronic tooth sensitivity. When healthy, this layer protects your healthy, more sensitive main tooth structure from things that could irritate it, like food, beverages, and oral bacteria. However, excessive plaque buildup and inadequate hygiene can quickly weaken and compromise enamel, leading to chronic tooth discomfort and, eventually, the development of tooth decay. To reduce this impact, be sure to thoroughly brush your teeth at least twice and floss at least once every day. Using antibacterial mouthwash can also boost your chances of strengthening your tooth enamel.
Stop actively harming your teeth
In addition to allowing oral bacteria and plaque to accumulate excessively on your teeth, you might also be doing them harm in other ways throughout the day without realizing it. For example, if you constantly eat and drink things with a lot of sugar in them, you can be feeding oral bacteria the fuel they need to produce enamel-weakening acids. If you grind your teeth a lot, or chew on things like ice constantly, you might also be exposing your teeth to more pressure than they’re used to. This pressure can wear down your tooth enamel, or lead to more significant tooth damage if you don’t take proper steps to prevent it.
Use your teeth only for biting and chewing
To many people, it can seem natural to use their teeth to open a bottle or a bag, trim their fingernails, or bite off a string hanging from their clothes. Using your teeth for everyday things they aren’t meant for can also expose them to undue levels of pressure and friction that can wear them down or damage them over time. They also increase your risks of experiencing an emergency involving severe damage to your tooth structure.
Learn more about relieving tooth sensitivity
If your teeth have become sensitive, then improving your hygiene routine and being more cautious of what you expose them to may help you alleviate the discomfort. For more information, schedule a consultation by calling the Dental Centre of Conroe in Conroe, TX, today at (936) 441-4600. We serve patients from Conroe and all neighboring communities.