Caring for Sensitive Mouths in Brisbane CBD
If you feel sensitivity in your mouth, several underlying causes can exist. If you experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, it can indicate your nerve has been exposed due to decay or a full-blown cavity.
Exposure can also occur when the nerve has been exposed because the surface of the tooth has been worn down by clenching and grinding, or chips have been taken out of the tooth due to impact or grinding or eating certain foods.
Gum recession can also cause sensitivity. The tooth matter underneath is exposed as the gum pulls away from the tooth. That exposed tooth matter has tiny holes that lead to the nerve at the centre of the tooth.
Prevent Tooth and Mouth Sensitivity
Similar to cases of decay, we recommend good mouth hygiene practices to prevent sensitivity. Having a checkup and cleaning every six months is also important. It allows the dentist to observe potential issues before they reach the point of needing extractions or other more invasive oral repairs.
Clenching and grinding lead to teeth wearing, and you can prevent that by adding an occlusal splint to your nighttime regime. This is a protective guard that you place in the mouth, just like a mouth guard in sports, to prevent clenching and grinding.
If it’s a gum problem you’re experiencing and they’re receding, it can be caused by gum disease or aggressive brushing and flossing. In cases of gum disease, regular cleanings of the gum will help. If you’re brushing too hard, using or flossing too aggressively, remember to take a more delicate approach during each act that will help keep your gum recession from getting worse.
Protect Your Teeth
Switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush, or one with an electric head that alerts you to aggressive brushing is a good place to start in avoiding further sensitivity.
Toothpaste that’s specially formulated for sensitive mouths will also help. If you have a higher level of sensitivity, we recommend using products with calcium and fluoride, like Tooth Mousse Plus® and Tooth Mousse Dip®. If there is a defect in the tooth, you may need a filling to take care of it.
Eat and Drink Without Pain and With Confidence
The best way for our dental team to assess what is causing your tooth sensitivity is to schedule an appointment. From there, we’ll be able to help you solve the problem, whether it’s advising you on less aggressive hygiene, using specialised sensitivity products, or if your situation requires a filling.
Contact our office today to schedule your visit.
* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner such as a Specialist Oral Surgeon.
