Is your Age at the Root of your Sensitive Teeth?

Have your teeth become more sensitive with age? This is commonly the case because adults find that their tooth enamel and gums tend to recede over time. Whether you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity or trying to prevent it, the following advice can help you soothe or stop sensitive teeth.

The Trouble of Tooth Sensitivity

You may have sensitive teeth if you feel a pang of pain or a tingling sensation from eating, drinking, brushing your teeth, or breathing cold air. This sensation can last for a moment or linger over time. But this condition is very common and experienced by more than 40 million adults. Yet the only way to soothe your sensitivity is to have an affordable dentist get to the root of the problem because tooth sensitivity can come from many causes, including:

• Eroded tooth enamel
• Gum recession that exposes the tooth’s underlying layer of dentin or the root of the tooth, which creates sensitivity
• Overly vigorous tooth brushing
• Improper brushing or flossing
• Frequently eating and drinking acidic foods
• Tooth grinding
• Acid reflux
• Diabetes, which can lead to gum to disease
• Smoking

The Age of Agony

While tooth sensitivity can strike at any age, studies show that it’s frequently felt by adults between the ages of 20 and 50, with the most cases occurring from age 30 to 40. This is often attributed to the fact that adults are more likely to have gum recession, which is a leading cause of sensitive teeth. And since time results in more wear and tear on tooth enamel, this increases the likelihood of sensitivity among adults.

Treatments for Tooth Sensitivity

But you don’t have to suffer with sensitive teeth. Thankfully, the problem can be easily treated by an affordable dentist or prevented completely. To avoid the agony altogether, follow these three tips:

1. Brush and floss very gently to prevent the erosion of your tooth enamel and gums.
2. Choose a non-abrasive or desensitizing toothpaste to protect tooth enamel.
3. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid wearing away your enamel and gums.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in Peoria, call Maple Shade Dental Group today or make an appointment.