Best Ways to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity Sensitive teeth can be a real pain. Simple things like consuming cold beverages and brushing your teeth can be very uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce sensitivity. Seven of them are listed below. Hopefully, your solution is among them and will help you carry on enjoying life. Prevention Tip 1: Use a Fluoridated Mouthwash At Least Once a Day Fluoridated mouthwash can reduce the sensitivity of your teeth. It can easily be found at your local drugstore. Fluoride is a chemical that strengthens tooth enamel. If your teeth are losing minerals, using fluoride can add new minerals back to your dental enamel. Be sure to use fluoridated mouthwash after brushing your teeth. And, also avoid rinsing the substance from your mouth. Prevention Tip 2: Avoid Eating or Drinking Certain Foods and Beverages When you have sensitive teeth, certain foods and beverages should be avoided. Those high in acid can damage tooth enamel and may cause you discomfort. Some foods that are high in acid include: • Citrus fruits such as oranges or grapefruit • Tomatoes and the products made with tomatoes • Fermented foods such as pickles • Dairy foods such as sour cream or yogurt • Carbonated beverages such as soft drinks • Wine and acidic alcoholic beverages Prevention Tip 3: Choose a Soft-bristled Toothbrush If your teeth are sensitive, choosing a soft-bristled toothbrush instead of one that has hard bristles is important. You should continue to brush your teeth at least twice a day. This helps to remove food and beverage debris that can lead to cavities or gingivitis. In addition, avoid applying too much pressure against your teeth while brushing. Prevention Tip 4: Use a Specialized Toothpaste When you have sensitive teeth, don’t use mint or cinnamon flavored toothpaste. It can irritate your dental enamel and gums. Look for toothpaste that has a mild flavor. Choosing toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth also is a good option. Prevention Tip 5: Use an Oral Irrigator
Buy an oral irrigator that emits pressurized water from a wand. This highly pressurized water helps remove food debris from between your teeth. It also prevents halitosis, gum disease and cavities. If your teeth are sensitive, using an oral irrigator can soothe the soft tissues inside your mouth, helping to prevent any sensitivity in your oral cavity. Prevention Tip 6: Use Caution While Flossing Your Teeth Flossing your teeth at least once a day is also very important. Choose a waxed dental floss that has thin strands. Take more time while flossing your teeth to avoid damaging the delicate gum tissue that surrounds them. Prevention Tip 7: Visit a Dentist Office for an Examination If you continue to have sensitive teeth, you should visit a dentist. They will perform an examination to determine if you have exposed dental roots, cavities or loose fillings that are causing your pain. A dentist can also determine if you have bruxism or nighttime teeth grinding that can lead to having sensitive teeth throughout the day.