No one wants to have uncomfortably sensitive teeth, especially while in quarantine. However, dental offices are currently only taking emergency appointments in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Thankfully, you may not have to wait for the stay-at-home orders to be lifted to find dental relief. Here’s how to treat your tooth sensitivity at home, as well as how to tell if you need to visit your Stephens City emergency dentist.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Your teeth are covered in a durable substance known as tooth enamel. This hard, outer shell protects the sensitive inner parts of your tooth, like the dentin, the tooth pulp, and the tooth’s nerve. If the enamel is worn away or damaged, these layers will become aggravated and vulnerable to infection. Tooth sensitivity can be the result of a variety of issues, including cracked or chipped teeth, gum recession, tooth decay, or chewing on hard objects like fingernails.
Are Sensitive Teeth a Dental Emergency?
Tooth sensitivity is not a dental emergency on its own. You should only seek emergency care if:
- The sensitivity is severe and very uncomfortable.
- A tooth is sensitive and badly broken, loose, or painful to chew with.
- You are also experiencing a fever, swelling, or other signs of infection.
If you are not sure if your situation counts as an emergency, don’t hesitate to call your dentist anyway. They can provide first-aid tips over the phone as well as help you determine if you need urgent care.
How Can I Treat Sensitive Teeth at Home?
There are several ways you may be able to treat your tooth sensitivity at home, like:
- Using specialized dental products. Desensitizing toothpastes, fluoridated mouthwashes, and toothbrushes with soft bristles can help prevent and treat sensitive teeth.
- Quitting bad habits that cause sensitivity. Teaching yourself to stop chewing on hard objects, eating too many acidic foods, and overbrushing will help protect your teeth from damage.
- Adding more calcium to your diet. Calcium is an important vitamin that helps rebuild enamel, so try eating more cheese, yogurt, canned salmon, broccoli, and almonds.
These easy at-home treatments should gradually correct your tooth sensitivity. If your sensitive teeth are still bothering you by the time the COVID-19 quarantine ends, don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist.
About the Author
In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, Virginia Governor Ralph Northam has extended Executive Order 53 on social distancing until at lease May 8th, 2020. Dr. Thomas Gromling’s number one priority has always been and will continue to be the wellbeing of his patients, staff, and community, which is why he will only be accepting emergency appointments at his Stephens City office until further notice. However, remember that we are “all alone together,” so feel free to reach out to him with any questions or concerns about taking care of your oral health in these unusual times. He can be reached via his website or at (540) 869-4377.