Anyone that provides dental care for elderly in nursing homes should be very careful and mindful of the foods they eat. Does eating frozen things cause dental discomfort? If you find yourself feeling pain when you floss or brush then it might be a sign that you need proper dental care. You could be having tooth sensitivity.
You do not have to put up with the pain associated with tooth sensitivity. There are some things you can do to improve your oral health and reduce tooth sensitivity. Here are a few reasons why you are experiencing tooth sensitivity and the necessary steps to take to reduce the problem.
You brush your teeth too much
Sometimes, tooth sensitivity is caused by brushing with a lot of force or the use of a hard-bristled brush. Over time, you will wear down the layers that protect your teeth. This will expose the tiny hollow tubes that lead to your dental nerves. When the tubes are exposed to sticky or acidic foods or extreme temperatures, tooth discomfort and sensitivity can occur. The simplest way to solve this problem is to use a toothbrush that has soft bristles and be gentle when brushing your teeth.
Eating acidic foods
If the tubes to your nerves are exposed, foods that contain acids such as lemon, tomato sauce, pickles and kiwi can cause pain. Avoiding these foods can help you avoid tooth discomfort. If the damage has already happened, visit a mobile dental clinic.
You are a tooth grinder
Even if tooth enamel is the strongest substance you have in your body, grinding your teeth can wear down your enamel. By doing this, you expose the middle layer of your tooth, which contains the tunes that lead to the dental nerves. You should talk to your dentist about getting a mouth guard that can stop you from tooth-grinding. The best guards are customized to fit your bite.
You use tooth-whitening toothpaste
A lot of manufacturers add chemicals that whiten teeth to their toothpaste and some individuals are more sensitive to these products than others. If you use toothpaste that contains whitening agents, you should consider switching to one that does not.
You are a mouthwash junkie
Just like toothpaste, you can find some over-the-counter rinses and mouthwashes that contain alcohol that make makes your teeth more sensitive – especially when your dentin’s exposed. You should instead try neutral rinses or skip the rinse and be diligent about brushing and flossing.
You have got gum disease
As you age, the risks of receding gums increase and can cause tooth sensitivity. If gingivitis or gum disease is the problem, talk to your dentist so that he can come up with a plan to treat any underlying disease and may also suggest a procedure to protect or seal your teeth.
Having excessive plaque
Dental care for elderly in nursing homes should ensure plaque is dealt with appropriately. The main purpose of brushing and flossing is to remove plaque from your teeth. An excessive buildup of plaque can make the enamel wear away.
