Fluoride Treatment and Tooth Sensitivity

Having sensitive teeth can make daily living uncomfortable. Simple pleasures like enjoying ice-cream and your morning cup of coffee can cause unwanted discomfort. If this sounds like an experience you are used to, you should know you are not alone. In fact, many people experience tooth sensitivity. At your next dental appointment, you should ask your dentist about options to help treat your tooth sensitivity, including the possibility of a fluoride treatment. Below is more information about how fluoride treatment can help treat tooth sensitivity.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

There are many things that can cause your teeth to be sensitive to heat, cold, and air pressure. If you experience mild sensitivity from time to time there is little reason to be alarmed. However, if you experience serious discomfort from hot and cold, you should have a discussion with your dentist, there may be a more serious underlying issue causing your discomfort. More serious tooth sensitivity may be caused by tooth decay, gum disease, or another oral health issue.

Other factors that cause mild tooth sensitivity:

• Diets with lots of high acidic foods and beverages: These high acidity foods and drinks can wear away the enamel on the tooth, causing it to be exposed and more sensitive.
• Aggressive tooth brushing: Brushing your teeth too hard can result in damage to the enamel or may even cause gum recession, both which may result in more sensitivity.
• Tooth decay: Not maintaining good oral hygiene habits can result in tooth decay resulting in the breakdown of your teeth.
• Genetics: Often tooth sensitivity can run in the family, ask your family members if this is an experience they have.

Fluoride Treatments for Tooth Sensitivity

Fluoride is a popular natural treatment used to help improve oral health.  The primary use of fluoride is to help keep your teeth strong and therefore to prevent their decay. When it is applied directly to the teeth, fluoride helps to maintain the minerals in the enamel of the teeth. Without even knowing it, you probably already receive a moderate amount of fluoride through the tap water you use and through your daily use of toothpaste and mouthwash. For individuals with sensitive teeth, additional fluoride treatments have been shown to help reduce discomfort. Additional fluoride treatments after routine exams and cleanings can go a long way to help to strengthen enamel and minimize tooth sensitivity. An alternate option is to look for specific toothpastes with added fluoride and incorporate these into your daily routine.

Preventing Tooth Sensitivity

Beyond treating sensitive teeth with fluoride treatment, there are other modifications you can make to your daily routine to further prevent sensitive teeth. Pick up some anti-sensitivity toothpaste. Try brushing your teeth more gently and switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush. Cut highly acidic foods and beverage from your diet for a while and see if that makes any difference. These include sodas, coffee, and citrus fruits. Lastly, make sure to have a conversation with your dentist about your teeth. A quick and simple fluoride treatment can make a big difference in improving your daily life.

More information on Fluoride Treatments : Eating After Fluoride Treatment