Many people experience tooth sensitivity (about forty million people in the United States alone) and don’t understand why. According to Mariyam Horiyat DDS, a dentist in Laguna Niguel and Mission Viejo, there are a variety of reasons why someone might experience sensitive teeth. Usually, this feeling is triggered by hot or cold foods, extremely acidic or sweet foods, and pressure from chewing, clenching or grinding (bruxism), brushing, or flossing. Sensitivity can range from a dull ache to a sharp sting of pain. Fortunately, this condition can be treated and made better by a certified dental hygienist. 

When you visit a dentist in Mission Viejo and/or Laguna Niguel for tooth sensitivity, your gum line and tooth enamel will be examined thoroughly. These two areas of your mouth are the primary causes of sensitive teeth. For example, when enamel starts to wear or gum lines recede, this exposes your dentin which is connected to the nerves inside your teeth. These nerves can be triggered more easily when they are not protected and, thus, you experience tooth sensitivity. With some investigation of your daily habits and routines, your dentist can determine what is causing your gum line recession or weakened enamel. Here are some of the most common culprits:

• Over-brushing (brushing teeth too hard, too often, or with a hard-bristled brush)
• Periodontal disease (gum line recession)
• Gingivitis (gum line inflammation) 
• Cracked teeth (from injury or cracked cavity filling)
• Overly acidic mouthwash
• Teeth whitening products
• Acidic foods
• Teeth grinding or clenching (Bruxism) 

The best thing to do when you experience sensitive teeth is to schedule an appointment with a dentist in Laguna Niguel and or Mission Viejo such as Mariyam Horiyat DDS. They can help you understand how and why your nerves are being triggered and what you can do to remedy the problem. If you have a problem with tooth decay, then you may require dental work such as crowns, inlays, and bonding. Another possible procedure is gum grafting, in which an oral surgeon can take healthy gum tissue and apply it to exposed roots in the mouth, or pinhole dental procedure. Root canals are another solution to tooth sensitivity when the pain is severe even though, many holistic and biological dentists are against root canal therapy and believe that root canal is harmful to human health.  However, most patients are able to make lifestyle choices in order to significantly minimize tooth sensitivity and prevent further dental problems in the future. Here are some of the best recommendations to help sensitive teeth: 

• Use an extra-soft toothbrush
• Brush with gentle, rotating movements
• Wear a mouthguard (to prevent teeth grinding) 
• Reduce the consumption of carbonated drinks, acidic foods, and wine
• Drink more water when you do consume acidic foods and drinks
• Use mouthwashes and toothpaste recommended by your dentist 
• Reconsider your teeth whitening methods

Tooth sensitivity can range from patient to patient and may be affected by previous oral health problems. If you are experiencing sensitivity, then it is advisable to consult Dr. Horiyat who utilizes her knowledge of holistic, biological, physiological protocols and approaches to access your past oral health records and a general understanding of your lifestyle and overall health and wellness. Together, you can pinpoint the cause of your sensitivity and take actionable steps to eliminate the discomfort. Schedule your appointment with the top certified holistic and biological dentist, Dr. Maryam Horiyat by calling 949-364-9600 or visiting www.AriaDentalCare.com.