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One of the most common dental issues our Chicago Lincoln Park dentist addresses with patients is tooth sensitivity. If you’ve ever cringed while taking a drink of cold water, then you may be one of the many people suffering from this condition. Although it can be uncomfortable, understanding what tooth sensitivity is and what causes it can go a long way toward treating the issue. Our Chicago Lincoln Park dentist shares helpful information below and suggests certain things you can do to minimize the irritation of tooth sensitivity.
According to our Chicago Lincoln Park dentist, tooth sensitivity, or Dentin hypersensitivity, is a common dental condition that occurs when the dentin in your teeth becomes exposed. The soft, inner part of your teeth is called dentin and houses many tiny openings that lead to the nerves inside the tooth. Once the dentin is exposed, certain things can trigger the nerves, causing tooth sensitivity.
According to our Chicago Lincoln Park dentist, tooth sensitivity is caused over time by the wearing of tooth enamel and receding gums. Aggressive or too frequent brushing can lead to both of these common dental problems. Teeth grinding or a diet high in acidic food can also cause your tooth enamel to wear and become sensitive to cold substances, like ice cream and soda.
There are multiple easy ways you can help yourself with this dental problem at home. Our Chicago Lincoln Park dentist suggests switching to a soft bristle toothbrush and focusing on brushing your teeth gently. Avoiding foods that are highly acidic, like soda, citrus fruits, and yogurt is also a good idea. If you grind your teeth while you sleep, wearing a mouth guard can correct the issue and prevent enamel wear. Although tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem, if the issue persists or worsens, our Chicago Lincoln Park dentist recommends scheduling a consultation for an exam.
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other dentistry-related topics, feel free to contact Dente Complete Dentistry, with a convenient dental office location in Chicago, IL by, clicking here or by 773.292.1911
