As we move into summer many of us will be consuming more frosty treats and icy drinks than usual. Unfortunately, this can lead to increased instances of dental sensitivity for many people. Keep reading this article from our Tinley Park dentists to get more information about what you can do about this type of dental discomfort…
Underlying Causes
If you begin to notice increased instances of dental pain or sensitivity, it is likely that the dental nerves in the center of your tooth are no longer adequately covered and protected. This may occur when your dental enamel wears away; it can also happen when gum tissue recedes from your tooth roots.
At-home Options
When you notice discomfort or sensitivity, try rinsing your mouth with a mixture of warm water and salt. You could alternatively use diluted hydrogen peroxide as a rinse. Additionally, there are a number of soothing ingredients available in popular foods and drinks. Look for consumables that include green tea, turmeric, and capsaicin to start!
Specialty Products
You’ll find that there are a number of sensitive-friendly oral hygiene products that are available over-the-counter. These toothpastes and mouth rinses are formulated to be gentle and non-irritating. Plus, many of the contain additional ingredients that actively sooth and numb nerves. Talk to your dentist to get a better idea of what kind of product may be right for you.
Long-term Treatments
Restorative dental treatment allows our team to address sensitivity and pain at its source. For example, if your enamel has thinned, you may choose to have a layer or protective composite resin placed over your natural tooth structure. Periodontal treatment is designed to heal and regenerate missing gum tissue, so that your dental nerves are covered at the roots. If you are battling chronic dental sensitivity, we’re here to help.
Don’t let sensitive teeth and gums sideline you this summer. Contact our Orland Park dentists to get the information you need to protect your smile; you can even schedule a personal consultation with our team!