Dr. Gemmi & Dr. Middleberg: Sensitive Teeth Factors And Fixes

Who’s ready for a sensitive discussion? Sensitive teeth discussion, that is. While many people deal with a level of sensitivity in their teeth, we know that our patients often are faced with an extra sensitivity depending on their orthodontic plan. So today, we’d like to discuss both sensitivity types, and hopefully offer some helpful information to you.

What Is Causing The Pain:

Typical tooth sensitivity can come from just about anywhere—sweet or sour foods, hot or cold temperatures. For some, even simply biting down causes problems. The resulting pain can be mild to severe, and many times is very sharp—shooting directly to the nerve endings. This type of sensitivity is caused by the nerve endings in your teeth becoming too easily exposed, creating a lower tolerance for the things you put in your mouth.

The sensitivity we hear more about at our office is the one that comes from your orthodontic care. This sensitivity comes because of the pressure placed on your teeth as they are being shifted into their new positions. Discomfort to your teeth and gums will vary depending on your exact orthodontic plan. To understand more about your plan, or a future orthodontic plan you are considering, talk with Dr. Gemmi or Dr. Middleberg.

What Can Help Your Sensitivity:

YOUR DAILY ROUTINE: No matter where your sensitivity is coming from, a good dental health routine is your best bet to enjoying a pain-free day.

Keeping up proper brushing and flossing helps prevent tarter buildup and the risk of exposing nerves. Using a soft bristled toothbrush when you brush causes less abrasion and reduces potential gum recession. There are also several brands of toothpaste that help decrease nerve sensitivity with regular use.

YOUR ORTHODONTIC ROUTINE: Initial placing of braces, or a change in care is one of the largest causes for discomfort. These problems, though initially painful at times, usually stop as your mouth becomes accustomed to the new routine. Taking over-the-counter pain medications can sometimes work until the pain subsides.

To help prevent unnecessary discomfort, try to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods. Things like nuts, taffy, gum or biting into an apple not only causes you additional pain, they are often responsible for dislodging brackets and other orthodontic care.

In addition to our list, here’s a short video that highlights care for your sensitive teeth:

If you have any questions about tooth sensitivity, or if you are experiencing a pain that seems to be especially bothersome, make sure to let us know during any visit to our office. Or send us a question through our Facebook page by clicking on the logo below: