Do you wince when eating cold ice cream or sipping a hot drink? Is it painful to eat sweet or acidic foods? Do you find yourself avoiding certain foods because they make your teeth hurt? If so, you may be dealing with tooth sensitivity, a common oral health concern with many possible causes. 

At Eric Felt DDS, we understand the importance of educating our patients on how to care for their oral health. That’s why we’ve developed this guide to tooth sensitivity, helping you understand its causes, treatment options, and prevention strategies. Keep reading to learn the basics of this condition and how to find relief.

What Is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity refers to discomfort or pain in the teeth when they’re exposed to certain stimuli, such as hot, cold, acidic, or sweet foods and drinks. Typical signs include sharp, temporary pain in one or more teeth. 

Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is often a symptom of other conditions, and can have many different causes, including:

• Enamel erosion: Anything that can thin enamel, including regular wear and tear, acidic foods and drinks, or aggressive brushing, can contribute to sensitivity.
• Gum recession: Gum disease can expose the sensitive roots of the teeth, causing sensitivity.
• Tooth decay and damage: Cavities, cracked fillings, chipped teeth, and other damage can lead to sensitivity.
• Dental treatments: Whitening treatments (including whitening toothpaste) or recent dental procedures can temporarily increase tooth sensitivity.
• Bruxism: Grinding or clenching your teeth is another common cause of tooth sensitivity.

How to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity

Preventing tooth sensitivity requires a diligent approach to oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily with the right technique and tools are essential in preventing tooth decay and gum disease, two of the most common causes of sensitivity. 

Consuming too many acidic foods and drinks — tomatoes, citrus, carbonated beverages, plums, grapes, pineapples, and more — can erode your tooth enamel, making the teeth more sensitive. Avoid overindulging in these acidic substances to protect your enamel and prevent sensitivity.

If you struggle with tooth sensitivity, you can prevent it from worsening by using toothpaste and mouthwash specifically developed for those with sensitive teeth. These products soothe irritated nerves and build a protective barrier around the exposed dentin.

In addition to at-home care, it’s also important to visit your dentist regularly. Professional cleanings and exams are essential, allowing for early detection of issues like gum disease and tooth decay that can contribute to sensitivity. By attending your check-ups twice a year, you can keep your teeth in top condition and avoid common issues like tooth sensitivity.

Treatment Options

Tooth sensitivity is not likely to go away on its own. Finding relief requires diligent at-home oral hygiene routines and possible professional care from your dentist.

The right treatment for tooth sensitivity depends on its cause. Desensitizing toothpaste blocks pain signals, but it doesn’t address the root cause of sensitivity. Professional care may be necessary to repair damage and restore oral health.

Fluoride is an especially powerful tool for strengthening enamel. Professional treatments at your dentist’s office are an excellent way to stop sensitivity at its source. Dental sealants are another great way to protect your teeth, creating a shield around exposed dentin or roots.

In severe cases of gum recession caused by periodontitis, surgical procedures such as gum grafts may be necessary. Filling cavities, repairing chips, and addressing bruxism with custom mouthguards are additional solutions that can address the root cause of sensitivity.

When to See a Dentist

If you have persistent tooth pain, swollen gums, or sensitivity that doesn’t improve, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your dentist. These symptoms can be signs of potentially serious oral health conditions, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and more. Your dentist can pinpoint the exact cause of your symptoms and recommend the right treatments, ensuring your smile remains happy and healthy.

Find Relief from Tooth Sensitivity at Eric Felt DDS

If you’re struggling with sensitive teeth, don’t wait to take action. Tooth sensitivity can be a warning sign of serious conditions that require prompt intervention. Contact the office of Eric Felt DDS today to schedule your appointment. 

Don’t let tooth sensitivity hold you back from eating and drinking your favorite foods and beverages. With help from our team, you can get your oral health back on track and find relief from bothersome sensitivity. 

Many umbrella dental terms are used to describe issues with your oral health. These terms are often more scientific than ones you may hear in your dental office or when talking with peers. One of these terms is malocclusion, which refers to when upper and lower teeth are not properly aligned or have other improper contact when the jaw is closed. Below, we will share more about how malocclusion affects your daily life and what other terms are often used to describe this oral condition. 

What Causes Malocclusion?

Most cases of malocclusion are caused by genetics, but there are other factors that can cause misaligned teeth including dental trauma, falls, premature tooth loss, TMJ disorders, teeth grinding, thumb sucking or pacifier use, and ill-fitted crowns. Some cases of malocclusion are caused when individuals have large teeth and their mouth is not equipped to handle them, thus causing overcrowding. Most cases of misaligned teeth can be solved with braces or orthodontic care. 

Overbites

One of the most common occurrences of malocclusion is an overbite. This is when the upper teeth cover your lower teeth when you bite down. It can also be referred to as a deep bite since the upper set of teeth goes deep into the lower part of the mouth. Overbites are usually corrected by braces.

Underbites

This is the opposite of an overbite, so the lower teeth cover the upper set of teeth. The upper teeth sit farther back than the lower and often give a bulldog-like appearance. Underbites can be helped with braces, but more intense options may be needed if the misalignment is severe. Other methods to correct an underbite include headgear, jaw surgery, or tooth extractions.

Crossbites

Similar to overbites, cross bites don’t cover your entire lower set of teeth but do not align as they should when you bite down. Crossbites can feature all of your teeth, or just a few, which distinguishes them from an over or underbite condition. The biggest concern with crossbites is uneven wear on teeth. These may require intense braces with headgear or surgery. 

Crowded Teeth

While teeth can vary in size, your mouth is only so big and can only handle teeth that are suited for that allotted space. While some individuals may have large teeth and experience no issues of malocclusion, others won’t have the space for large molars or wisdom teeth. Some people with smaller jaws or mouths may not even have room for smaller teeth. 

Other Malocclusion Terms

Many misalignments can occur with a set of teeth. This is why the umbrella term of malocclusion is often used to describe all of them. However, the more descriptive dental terms help patients and others to understand exactly what is happening with the teeth. Some other terms for malocclusion include:

• Misplaced midlines
• Gapped teeth
• Overjets
• Open bites
• Spacing
• Protrusion
• Edge-to-edge bite

There are also different classes and divisions of malocclusion, depending on the type and severity. While the classes may not be understood by the patient, they help dentists and hygienists to quickly understand the severity of your case.

Risks Of Improper Tooth Alignment

While many may feel that tooth alignment is purely a cosmetic or appearance issue, other health issues could be caused by malocclusion. When left untreated, malocclusion can lead to further pain, deteriorated oral health, and much more. 

Some risks that come from improper tooth alignment include:

• Gum recession: Your teeth and gums work together to protect your mouth from disease or harm. When your teeth are misaligned, it can expose your gums to more frequent wear and lead to gum recession. Having an underbite or overbite can also cause friction on your gums and lead to recession.
• Jaw pain: Most improper bites are not comfortable on your jaw. The misalignment can put pressure on your jaw bones and joints causing pain throughout the day. 
• Malnutrition: Chewing can be largely affected by misaligned teeth. If eating and chewing are painful or take longer to perform, some patients may become malnourished as they switch to soft foods or only liquids. Having malocclusion fixed as soon as possible will help you enjoy your favorite foods and get the nutrients you need. 
• Sleep Apnea: Your jaw position and reduced oral space can lead to sleep apnea. Misaligned teeth can cause restriction to your airway, which can limit your breathing during sleep. Malocclusion can also impact your nasal passages, which could lead to louder mouth breathing or snoring. 
• Early tooth deterioration: The biggest concern for those with malocclusion is early tooth decay. Friction, lack of nutrients, mouth breathing, or improper chewing can cause tooth damage that is irreversible. Once a lot of your enamel is lost or you have a large bacterial infection, your teeth will never be the same. 

Services From Eric Felt Dental

Our dental office offers pediatric dentistry, general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and more. We want you to love your smile, so we provide a variety of services to help you receive all of your care in one place. Located in Cottonwood Heights, we serve a large area of Utah residents and help them take better control of their oral health. Schedule your appointment today!

In an attempt to avoid costly dental treatments, many people turn to home remedies. While these natural, do-it-yourself solutions can be beneficial, not all of them are equally effective. In fact, some can do more harm than good. 

In this blog post, we’ll examine the effectiveness of common dental care home remedies, help you understand which ones to avoid, and provide advice on when it’s best to seek professional care at the dentist’s office.

Evaluating 6 Popular Home Remedies: Pros and Cons

In the age of the internet, it seems like everyone and their mother is constantly promoting new wellness trends, life hacks, and DIY solutions that claim to provide almost miraculous results. In the world of dental care, these home remedies often focus on oral hygiene, toothache relief, whitening solutions, and gum health treatments.

Many home remedies are time-tested traditions that have proven to be beneficial, while others are more dubious. If you’re tempted to try one of these at-home treatments because of their ease of access and affordability, ensure you perform thorough research before deciding to attempt them.

1. Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is an ancient practice that has recently gained popularity online. It involves swishing sesame, coconut, or sunflower oil in your mouth for 10–20 minutes to kill harmful bacteria, reduce plaque, and prevent bad breath. While studies have shown some promise, evidence of its benefits is limited. Oil pulling cannot replace brushing and flossing, as it’s not effective for treating cavities or gum disease. 

For more information, check out “Oil Pulling for Enhanced Oral Health: Fact or Fiction?”

2. Saltwater Rinse

When it comes to home remedies for dental care, saltwater rinses are among the most effective. Dissolving salt in warm water and using it as a mouth rinse can reduce inflammation, help with wound healing, soothe minor gum irritations, and provide relief from post-extraction pain. In fact, saltwater rinses are often recommended by dentists. 

However, overuse can dry out your mouth and irritate the soft tissues. Saltwater rinses are best used sparingly, and if symptoms persist, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist.

3. Baking Soda for Whitening

Using baking soda for DIY teeth whitening is one of the most popular home remedies touted by online influencers, whether as a paste or a rinse. Many companies have even started selling baking soda toothpaste. 

While it’s effective for removing light stains and reducing plaque buildup, it won’t address serious discoloration. Plus, excessive use can erode tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity. If you’re looking for effective ways to brighten your smile, talk to your dentist about professional teeth whitening options. 

4. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse or Gel

Hydrogen peroxide has many uses, from cleaning cuts and scrapes to removing stains from clothing. It can also be diluted and used as a mouth rinse or teeth whitening agent. 

While hydrogen peroxide has proven to lighten surface stains when used properly, overuse can lead to gum irritation and damage the enamel. Like with other home remedies used for teeth whitening, it’s best to talk to your dentist and explore professional treatments that have shown to be safer and more effective.

5. Clove Oil for Toothache Relief

If you have a toothache, applying clove oil to the affected area can help to numb the pain. Because clove oil contains eugenol, it has a mild anesthetic effect and antibacterial properties, making it a natural solution for temporary pain relief. 

That being said, clove oil should not replace professional dental care for serious infections or intense pain. If symptoms persist, you should call your dentist for expert advice.

6. Aloe Vera for Gum Health

You’ve probably used aloe vera gel to protect sunburned skin after a day at the beach, but did you know that it can also soothe gums and reduce inflammation? While it’s unreliable for severe gum disease or infections, applying a small amount of aloe vera to the gums can address the minor irritation that occurs during the beginning stages of gingivitis. 

Which Home Remedies Are Safe to Use Regularly?

Even effective home remedies can cause harm if overused. While it’s okay to turn to DIY treatments on occasion, they should not replace standard oral hygiene practices like brushing, flossing, and professional exams and cleanings at your dentist’s office. 

If pain or swelling persists, bleeding gums don’t improve, or you experience tooth sensitivity, it’s a sign that home remedies aren’t enough and it’s time to call your dentist. Prolonging professional treatment can worsen infections and disease and even lead to tooth loss. 

Finding the Balance Between Home Remedies and Professional Care

At Eric Felt DDS, we’re committed to helping you reach your oral health goals. With a combination of at-home treatments and professional care, you can achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always wanted. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.