Albertville, AL
There’s nothing better than a scoop or two of your favorite ice cream during the sizzling summer heat. However, an enjoyable experience can quickly be cut short when you feel a sharp zing of pain in your teeth as you take a bite. Tooth sensitivity can occur for several reasons. Knowing what you can do to reduce the impact can minimize painful sensations allowing you to enjoy ice cream and other cold or hot foods and beverages. Fortunately, our Albertville family dentists at Wall Street Dentistry share on the blog today why ice cream can make your teeth hurt and the best ways to prevent tooth sensitivity.
What causes sensitive teeth?
Temperature sensitivity can be caused by damage, injuries, or chronic oral health conditions. In the most common tooth sensitivity cases, the leading causes are gum recession and enamel erosion. Receding gums could cause tooth sensitivity. Also, worn down or eroded tooth enamel can expose the underlying nerves. Many patients with gum recession can have a restorative procedure called gum grafting. Unfortunately, tooth enamel is a substance that cannot be restored. Therefore, our dentists in Albertville who treat sensitive teeth advise patients to protect their oral health so that they don’t risk sensitivity or advanced oral conditions.
Additional tooth sensitivity causes:
- Acidic Foods and Beverages: Foods and beverages such as vinegar, tomatoes, fruit juice, energy drinks, citrus, and soft drinks include high levels of acid and should be consumed occasionally to prevent excessive damage.
- Mouthwash: Some mouthwash brands are more acidic than others and can make your sensitivity situation worse. Therefore, ask our Albertville dentists about which mouthwash they recommend for your oral health.
- Damaged Teeth: Chips, cracks, and breaks in your teeth can result in sensitivity. Below your tooth enamel is sensitive roots that can become exposed when you have damaged teeth or receding gums.
- Teeth Grinding: Clenching and grinding your teeth, also known as bruxism, can wear tooth enamel down or crack teeth resulting in sensitivity. Therefore, our dentists in Albertville who treat bruxism recommend wearing a custom mouthguard to protect your teeth and relieve your jaw of intense pressure.
How can I protect myself against receding gums or tooth enamel damage?
The excellent news is that there are steps you can take to help prevent damage caused to your gums or tooth enamel. First, reduce your daily intake of acidic or sugary foods and beverages. If you choose to consume something, rinse your mouth with water to remove the remaining sugar and acids from your teeth. Next, brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and special toothpaste formulated for tooth sensitivity and floss before bed. Then, reduce mouthwash use to no more than two times per day as it could increase sensitivity. Finally, visit our Albertville dentist’s office once every six months for a routine cleaning and examination. With regular monitoring, our skilled dentists can uncover problems early and treat them before the situation worsens and causes extensive treatment needs and an excessive financial commitment.
Treating Tooth Sensitivity in Albertville, Alabama
It can be challenging to enjoy a nice frozen summertime dessert when you have sensitive teeth. However, with the proper care and treatment, you can return to eating your favorite foods and beverages. Whether your sensitivity began today or weeks ago, our Albertville dentists who treat sensitive teeth can examine your oral health and develop a plan to reduce the painful sensations. Call Wall Street Dentistry at (256) 878-0525 today to schedule a consultation so that you can enjoy eating ice cream once again!
