SOOTHE YOUR TEETH

IF YOU SUFFER from sensitive teeth, hot cups of coffee, crunchy salad or even breathing in cold air can be excruciating. So why does it happen? “Tooth sensitivity to extreme temperatures is most often due to an exposed root surface,” says Dr Euan Swan, manager of dental programs at the Canadian Dental Association. Below the protective coating on the outside of our teeth is an area called dentin, which contains microscopic canals called tubules. “When the dentin loses its protective covering, the tubules allow heat and cold or acidic or sticky foods to stimulate the nerves and cells inside the tooth,” explains Swan. But there are easy ways to treat this common issue.

Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush 

The protective layer on your teeth needs to stay as strong as possible. “A toothbrush with soft bristles is recommended to clean your mouth without damaging teeth or gums,” says Swan. 

Look for dental products with fluoride 

It is more than a marketing buzzword—fluoride can be an important part of your dental routine. “Fluoride can help remineralize, or strengthen, a tooth surface that has been demineralized by bacterial acids,” explains Swan. So upgrade your mouthwash and toothpaste if you’re not already using products with fluoride.

Use toothpaste made for sensitive teeth 

“A desensitizing toothpaste contains compounds that help block transmissions of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve,” says Swan. But he cautions that not every product is worth the money—to ascertain if your toothpaste is effective, Swan says most people will feel a difference within a week to 10 days.

Cut down on acidic food and drinks 

Altering your diet can keep you from wincing in pain every time you sit down to eat. “Acidic food and drink can contribute to tooth erosion and tooth sensitivity,” says Swan. His advice: consume soft drinks, citrus fruit juices and wine in moderation.

Get a night guard 

If you find you often wake up with a dull headache or a sore jaw, you could be grinding your teeth while you sleep. “Grinding teeth for prolonged periods can cause tooth wear,” says Swan. There’s an easy solution: “Your dentist can fit you with a mouth guard to protect your teeth during sleep.”

Practice good oral care 

There’s nothing new about this one. Brush and floss daily and make annual check-up trips to your dentist. “Proper oral hygiene is the key to preventing gums from receding and causing sensitive-tooth pain,” explains Swan. 

And if you think you’re already doing a pretty good job taking care of your teeth, but still can’t enjoy biting into a cold, crisp apple, go straight to the experts. Your dentist can evaluate your current oral hygiene routine and help you determine the best way to decrease the sensitivity.