3. • This problem often happens when gums recede
and/or cementum is not presence. The gum tissue
acts like a protective blanket to cover the roots of
C
the teeth. As the gums recede the underlying tooth
A
roots are exposed.
U
S
E
S
4. • Brushing too hard or with too much pressure which
removes gum tissue.
• Aging, sensitivity is highest between the ages of 25-
C 30
A • Using a hard tooth brush instead of a soft one
U
S
E
S
5. • Enamel erosion by acidic foods
• Poor oral hygiene which leads plaque to build-up around the
teeth and gums.
C
A • Cracked teeth
U • Tooth whitening
S • Stimulation from hot beverages or foods
E • Dental treatments-simple cleanings, orthodontics or
S restoration
6. • The key to preventing tooth sensitivity is to keep
your gums healthy by reducing the pressure you
P
R use while brushing, use a soft toothbrush and to
E maintain good oral health habits.
V • This means brushing all your teeth for 2-3 minutes,
E not the usually 30- 45 seconds that most people
N
brush.
T
I • Flossing is crucial in order to reach the 35% of the
O tooth surfaces where brushing can not reach.
N
7. • Use a toothpaste for sensitivity. They need to
P
be used 4-6 weeks before any changes can be
R noticed.
E • Avoid highly acidic foods like citrus or soda
V pop that can work against the sensitivity
E
N
toothpaste.
T • Brush gently with a soft toothbrush
I twice/day using a low abrasion desensitizing
O toothpaste
N
8. • Use fluoride mouth rinse to help remineralize the
tooth surface. Fluoride gels and varnish are
P
R effective also.
E • Don't use a tartar control toothpaste, use a
V fluoridated toothpaste or desensitizing toothpaste
E
N
• Try spreading a thin layer of desensitizing
T toothpaste on the exposed roots with your finger
I before you go to bed
O • Avoiding very cold foods
N
9. • Monitor intake of fruit drinks or sports drinks that
are high in sugar and/or acid; tomatoes; pickles;
P citrus…..
R
E
• Always use a de-sensitizing toothpaste for 2-3
V
weeks prior to having your teeth "cleaned"
E • Avoid teeth grinding and clenching by using a
N nightguard
T • Having professional tooth cleaning, oral hygiene
I instructions and fluoride treatments.
O
N
10. • If these suggestions do not give you relief
T please see your dentist.
R • One way your dentist can gauge the severity
E
A of your sensitive teeth is by using the air test.
T The dentist sprays the air gum across each
M area of a your teeth to pinpoint the exact
E
N location of sensitivity.
T
11. • The decision of whether a restoration is needed
comes in after an in-office desensitizer has been
T
R applied and you have been sent home for a week
E with desensitizing tooth paste to see whether a
A more aggressive approach is needed.
T • An in-office desensitizer can be painted or sprayed
M
on. This is a painless procedure. Your dentist can
E
N apply gel; white fillings (bonding) to cover exposed
T surfaces and close the pores of the tooth root.
