Have you been experiencing tooth sensitivity when you never used to in the past? It could be an indicator that your tooth roots have become exposed and you didn’t realize it. Let’s find out what the reasons for your discomfort could be, and what you can do about it to start feeling better in no time.
What Are Tooth Roots?
The roots of your teeth are what help keep your teeth anchored in your mouth. That’s where the nerves are hidden, covered with a layer of dentin and cementum. However, due to conditions such as gum recession, your teeth roots might become vulnerable to infection no matter how well you maintain an oral care regimen. Plaque, tartar, and germs can all attack your exposed tooth roots, causing increased pain due to sensitive teeth.
How Do You Know When They’re Exposed?
Gum disease is one major culprit, but another potential cause could be from brushing your teeth too hard. Your teeth could also not be lined up correctly, and you might grind your teeth too often, which can also damage them.
Suggested Treatments
One suggested treatment is to try a gentler toothpaste. Another recommendation is to change your toothbrush – find one with bristles that aren’t as stiff, and use a different technique. For instance, you could try moving in circles instead of going up and down. Talking to your dentist is also a good idea since they can diagnose the extent of the problem, and determine whether dental surgery, fillings, and sealants, or mouth guards are needed.
What Happens Next?
If you’re unable to seek treatment, you may start to wonder what happens next. However, your exposed tooth roots won’t heal naturally by themselves, which means the associated problems won’t go away. Gum disease will worsen into periodontitis and could lead to damage to your jaw bones. You’ll need to start brushing your teeth better and checking in with your dentist to see how you’ve improved and what you can continue doing so you can start enjoying all your favorite meals and drinks again just in time for the first summer barbecue of the season.
KEEP YOUR TEETH HEALTHY WITH ANNAPOLIS DENTAL CARE!
Whether it’s a regular check-up you need or a tooth extracted, Annapolis Dental Care has the expertise and compassion to work with you on improving your oral health. Your comfort and health are our top priorities, and so we go above and beyond to make our patients happy and give them the highest quality care. To set up an appointment today, please give us a call at 410-571-5014 or visit us online. For more oral health tips for you and your family follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube! We are always looking to accept new patients, so if you live in Arnold, Annapolis, or Anne Arundel County, MD, come on down!