Sensitive teeth can make activities such as brushing, flossing, eating and drinking uncomfortable and unpleasant. If you have sensitive teeth, it’s important that you take steps to mitigate any pain and see your dentist if necessary.

Some steps you can take at home include:

• Brushing with desensitizing toothpaste. After a few applications, desensitizing toothpaste can help relieve mild to moderate sensitivity.
• Using a fluoride rinse. You should be able to get a fluoride rinse at your grocery store or pharmacy without a prescription. Swishing the rinse once a day should decrease overall sensitivity.
• Keeping your teeth clean. Brushing and flossing every day can go a long ways in preventing sensitivity by controlling plaque which irritates teeth.
• Using a soft-bristled brush. Sometimes a hard-bristled brush can wear away at the protective enamel surface surrounding your teeth and leave the dentin exposed.

If you’ve tried some of these home remedies and still experience pain due to sensitivity, it’s time to see a dentist. Professional tooth sensitivity treatments include:

• Fluoride application. Your dentist may decide to apply extra fluoride to sensitive tooth surfaces. The fluoride will help strengthen your enamel and reduce pain.
• Sealants. If your discomfort is due to an exposed tooth root, your dentist may choose to cover the exposed surface with a sealant.
• Fillings. An exposed tooth root may also require a dental filling, which can form a protective shield around the sensitive area and eliminate any pain.

To learn more about treatments for sensitive teeth, contact Greenspoint Dental today to speak to one of our Houston dentists and set up an appointment.