Having healthy teeth and gums are extremely beneficial to our oral health. By brushing regularly, you can be sure that you are on the right path to maintaining healthy teeth. You will also want to make sure that you are flossing daily to be certain that your gums do not get neglected. Unfortunately, for many, the gums are often forgotten about when taking proper care of our mouths. If they are not cared for properly, sensitivity can arise causing an unpleasant experience.
Causes of Sensitivity:
For one, flossing can directly impact the healthiness of the gums. If you do not floss daily, this can sometimes cause the gums to feel tender, swell or appear red in color. Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures may also be possible, as well. When these symptoms arise, they are typically signs of “gingivitis” or “gum disease”.
Other causes of sensitivity can be cause by brushing too hard or irritation of dental appliances. When you are brushing, you will want to make certain that you are using a soft bristled brush and try to refrain from any abrasive toothpaste. Increased pressure of a brush is capable of wearing away gum tissue, which causes more of the tooth root to be exposed, thus leaving you with the unpleasant sensitivity.
As for dental appliances, if you have an appliance that you wear daily or nightly make sure that it feels comfortable to you. If the fit doesn’t feel right, be certain that you get it adjusted as soon as possible! If not, this is what may be causing any sensitivity to the gums or even possible the tongue. If it is a retainer, there could be a metal piece or even part of the plastic that causes irritation to the mouth.
What Can I Eat?
No matter what part of the mouth is sensitive, whether it is the teeth, gums or tongue it can especially make eating difficult. The best thing you can do is to avoid certain foods that are high in acidity or are of extreme temperature. Acidic foods can contribute to irritation and in some cases can cause sores on the gumline.
Do your best to refrain from eating or drinking the following:
If you are looking for some ideas of foods you can eat you could try certain foods that are moderate in temperature and soft. For example, you could try foods like bananas, applesauce, yogurt, mashed potatoes, pasta noodles, scrambled eggs, macaroni, or even oatmeal. If you are questionable about what foods may irritate your mouth, speak with your dentist for clarification.
No one should have to suffer through sensitivity! If you have experienced prolonged sensitivity or have any concerns about your mouth, please contact River Run Dental Spa today so that we may be able to assist with your dental needs.