If you're concerned about sensitive teeth, try changing your brushing method.

For some time now, my teeth have been feeling extremely sensitive when I drink cold water. Even after the water has gone down my throat, I still grimace. This isn't something to be dismissed as age. It's possible my teeth have become damaged due to poor brushing habits.

 

Tooth sensitivity is a sign of poor dental health. Sensitivity occurs when the nerves within the tooth become irritated. Teeth are composed of the hard enamel, the outermost layer, and the yellowish dentin beneath it. Dentin contains tiny, invisible pores (dentinal tubules). These pores are connected to the nerves, so when the enamel wears away, exposing the dentin, the nerves become irritated.

The biggest cause of tooth enamel wear and sensitivity is poor brushing habits. A prime example is brushing too hard. Frequently drinking carbonated beverages or grinding your teeth while sleeping can also wear down enamel. Chewing ice or candy without letting it melt can also contribute to tooth sensitivity. Clenching your teeth while concentrating can also accelerate tooth wear by applying physical stress to your teeth, so be careful.

 

To prevent tooth sensitivity, start by changing the way you brush your teeth.

Instead of moving the toothbrush side to side, hold the bristles at a 45-degree angle to your gums and brush in a sweeping motion toward your teeth. It's best to brush each tooth about 20 times.

Hold the toothbrush lightly with your fingers instead of your palm to avoid using too much force.

 

If your teeth are excessively sensitive, you can seek dental treatment. Fillings are used to fill in worn areas of the tooth, preventing the dentin from being exposed. Fluoride and other substances can also bind to the calcium within the tooth, blocking the holes in the dentinal tubules.

 

Using toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth can also help. These contain particles that can block exposed dentinal tubules. However, toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth may not be as effective at removing plaque. If you brush your teeth three times a day, it's best to use toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth twice and regular toothpaste or a tartar-removing toothpaste the other time to maintain good dental hygiene.

 

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I didn't think about having a dental floss preventative.

Brush your teeth as if you're brushing your teeth.

Don't hold it with your palm, but with your fingers

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