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The Effects of Autumn on Sensitive Teeth | Ottawa Dentist

Here we are – preparing ourselves for another autumn season. We swap out popsicles and lemonade for pumpkin bread and hot cocoa. For most of us, this is a welcomed treat as the weather begins to cool down. For others, this is a painful time of year for our mouths because of one reason – sensitive teeth. If you notice a painful zing in your mouth when you eat or drink anything cold or hot, you likely have sensitive teeth.

There are many reasons one could have teeth sensitivity, but it’s generally wear and tear that causes your gums to pull back, making your teeth sensitive. Tooth decay, gingivitis, and plaque buildup are various dental issues that make consuming hot or cold foods difficult. It isn’t what about the choice that you need to worry about – enjoy your favorite autumnal treats. It is the change of temperature in your choices that makes your teeth react.

Damaged teeth or worn teeth due to teeth grinding are also ways teeth can become sensitive. The sooner you fix these issues, the less likely there will be more damage caused because of the neglect. Use a mouth guard while you sleep to keep your teeth from wearing down. If you use teeth whitening products often, the chemicals can begin to wear down the tooth enamel. Acidic foods, like citrus fruit, can also contribute to wear and tear on tooth enamel. The key is to keep everything in moderation.

Wear and tear on your teeth are something not to be taken lightly. If you feel you have sensitive teeth, consult a dental professional for helpful tips so you can enjoy the warm and tasty treats this season has to offer.

Schedule your appointment today. Call Dr. Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.urbandentalcentre.com.

Dr. Katia Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.

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The ABCs of Tooth Sensitivity | Ottawa Dentist

As we progress into these chillier autumn months, our clothes begin to multiply, and our diet begins to change from ice cold drinks to piping hot beverages. For those that aren’t exactly fans of the heat, it is a welcomed season. For those that have trouble drinking those pumpkin spice lattes to warm us on these brisk months, this is a tough adjustment period.

There are some things you can do to prevent your teeth from becoming sensitive to your favorite autumn treats. Taking proactive measures will not only decrease your chances of developing tooth sensitivity, but will also maintain your mouth’s overall good health:

Avoid acids. One of the easiest ways to keep your smile is to improve your diet. Instead of junk foods and acidic drinks like sodas, try eating more fruits and dairy as snacks. They will naturally scour stains from your teeth while producing saliva to wash any sugars left away.

Be gentle. One of the main reasons your tooth enamel may be thinning is due to your brushing. Brushing harder doesn’t clean your teeth better. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. For best results, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and hold it at a 45-degree angle while you brush gently in a circular motion.

Cool it on bleaching. We all want bright, Hollywood smiles, but overbleaching will begin to have an adverse effect on your teeth as it begins to wear down your enamel, exposing the discolored layers hiding beneath.

Don’t grind your teeth. Believe it or not, if you find that you are clenching your teeth or waking with headaches, see a dentist. Clenching your teeth will wear enamel, so you may need a mouth guard.

If you would like more information about tooth sensitivity, call Dr. Katia Doumit in Ottawa, Ontario at 613-232-8000 or visit www.lesplanadedental.com.

Dr. Doumit proudly serves Ottawa and all surrounding areas.