Don’t let sensitive teeth get in the way of your summer fun!

Jun 20, 2013

Do your sensitive teeth dread the frozen treats of summer? You are not alone. A recent survey of US dental offices found that one in eight people has over-sensitive teeth.

You may feel pain when you brush and floss or when you eat and drink cold items.

Sensitivity usually comes from receding gums or when the enamel of your teeth is worn away. Brushing too hard, teeth grinding, acidic foods and age could also cause this sensitivity.

The good news is that you can take steps to prevent or lessen the pain:

  • Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth that contains potassium and brush with a soft bristled toothbrush
  • Stay away from highly acidic foods
  • Your dentist might offer a special fluoride to help strengthen enamel
  • A gum graft can help reduce a sensitive area by adding tissue where there is recession
  • Bondings or crowns may be needed to cover exposed roots
  • For more serious cases, a root canal may be in order to repair damage

Of course, general good dental hygiene on a daily basis and regular cleanings can also go a long way!

If you have any questions or concerns about sensitive teeth, we are happy to talk to you about the prevention and treatment options that would work best for you.

Now that you know how to lessen the pain of sensitive teeth, here’s a quick recipe for a yummy frozen smoothie…

 

Mixed Berry Smoothie

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
  • 1/2 cup frozen mixed berries
  • 1 frozen banana
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

Directions

In a blender combine yogurt, pomegranate juice, berries, banana, honey and lime juice. Cover and blend until nearly smooth.

Nutrition facts

Servings Per Recipe 2, cal. (kcal) 203, Fat, total (g) 2, chol. (mg) 7, sat. fat (g) 1, carb. (g) 39, fiber (g) 3, sugar (g) 24, pro. (g) 10, vit. A (RE) 5, vit. C (mg) 13, sodium (mg) 44, calcium (mg) 11, iron (mg) 6, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

 

Recipe source: http://www.bhg.com/recipe/mixed-berry-smoothie/

Other sources:

http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/sensitive-teeth.aspx

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/tooth-sensitivity

http://news.health.com/2013/03/01/1-in-8-adults-may-have-sensitive-teeth/