Preventing sensitive teeth

Prevention is better than cure in dentistry and this equally applies to sensitive teeth. Most people experience sensitive teeth in their lives but it is preventable if you adopt the following measures:

• Reduce your consumption of sweet and sugary foods and drinks.
• Cut down on the amount of fizzy drinks, e.g. cola you consume.
• If you are prone to teeth grinding then wearing a mouth guard will prevent this.
• Use a soft toothbrush or an electric toothbrush
• Use a toothpaste which is designed for sensitive teeth
• Clean and floss your teeth twice a day. Avoid excessive brushing and take extra care near the gums.
• Consider using a fluoride mouthwash
• If you are thinking about undergoing teeth whitening; talk to your dentist beforehand as teeth whitening can cause sensitive teeth.
• Limit your intake of acidic foods, e.g. citrus fruits

Plus visit your dentist for a twice yearly check up.

If you think that you have sensitive teeth then talk to your dentist as this may be caused by a dental problem such as tooth decay or gum disease.

If you have recently undergone some form of dental treatment then this may be responsible for your sensitive teeth so, again, speak to your dentist.

In most cases sensitive teeth are caused by a poor dental hygiene routine.