When it comes to your mouth, two of most important aspects of it are the gums and teeth. However, our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist generally always say it’s not until your mouth is in pain that you become more cautious with your oral health.
Now, whether you have sensitive gums or sensitive teeth, typically, both are reasons why oral soreness and pain occur. Here are the key differences between the two and a handful of ways to help alleviate the discomfort.
Understanding Gum Sensitivity
Gum sensitivity is pretty much what it sounds like – some form of annoyance and irritation coming from the gums. If you believe your gums are sensitive, our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist suggest that you try and look for some very specific symptoms to make sure that they actually are.
Gum sensitivity can result from gingivitis, usually the first stage of gum disease. A few of the signs of gingivitis are swollen and tender gums, those that seamlessly bleed and create bad breath, according to the American Dental Association (ADA) Mouth Healthy site. As gingivitis evolves into advanced gum disease, having receding gums is another condition to be on the lookout for.
Gum sensitivity resulting from gingivitis or periodontal disease is generally caused by poor oral hygiene. Plaque is the main offender of this sensitivity as it builds up alongside the gum line and, if not taken care of properly, our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist say it can develop to advanced gum disease.
Some additional causes include:
- Diabetes
- Tobacco Use
- Crooked Teeth
- Pregnancy
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity has some common symptoms of its own.
- At times, you may find yourself grimacing when brushing or flossing certain teeth.
- Having tooth pain when eating or drinking something cold.
- Or even the same feeling when consuming something hot, acidic or sweet.
Tooth sensitivity has a variety of smaller dental causes, some of which are similar to gum pain.
- Cavities and tooth fractures
- Receding gums
- Worn tooth enamel
- Exposed tooth dentin
- Loose fillings
- Gum disease
Additionally, grinding your teeth, or brushing them with forcefully, are two more actions that create sensitivity in your teeth. Furthermore, our Rancho Cucamonga Dentist say to take note that the overuse of mouthwash or even a cracked tooth also expose nerves which may cause irritation.
Treatment and Prevention Of Sensitive Teeth and Gums
Even though both gum and tooth sensitivity can potentially later advance to serious mouth health issues, each are completely treatable and preventable. The best way to avoid sensitive gums, sensitive teeth and any issues originating from either is by practicing and maintaining exceptional oral health.
This begins with using a toothpaste whose benefits include preventing plaque and gingivitis – two culprits that can lead to sensitive gums. Flossing and maintaining a nutritious diet also help in keeping your gums healthy.
Sensitive teeth can be treated by using a desensitizing toothpaste and fluoride gel. Other options may include bonding, gum grafting and a root canal, of course, if recommended by your local Rancho Cucamonga Dentist.
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