Having sensitive teeth can be a challenge. Hot and cold foods can irritate your teeth and simply applying pressure can cause you to wince in pain, so how will you ever be able to handle braces? You may not realize this, but tooth sensitivity can be caused by everyday things you’re doing that can be easily avoided. With a little help and some lifestyle changes, you may be able to beat tooth sensitivity and lead a life free from discomfort. Don’t let sensitive teeth hold you back from achieving a perfect smile. If you’re asking yourself, “Can I get braces if I have sensitive teeth?” The answer is yes! Read on to learn how.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Sometimes our teeth can develop sensitivities to everyday things, and it can seem like it came out of nowhere. One day you’re enjoying a refreshingly cool glass of ice water with ease and the next, you’re feeling extreme discomfort. What causes tooth sensitivity, and can it be avoided? Having braces and sensitive teeth can be challenging, but if you know what causes your tooth sensitivity, you can try and make some changes. Main causes of tooth sensitivity include:
- Brushing too hard
- Enamel erosion from acidic foods and beverages
- Tooth grinding
- Gum recession
Limit tooth sensitivity by avoiding certain problem foods and over-brushing. Over-brushing is a big cause of gum recession and can expose the nerve, resulting in increased sensitivity in that area. Be sure to brush gently and maintain proper oral hygiene practices to prevent harmful bacteria from building up and wearing down your enamel.
Orthodontic Treatment and Tooth Sensitivity
Although braces do put some gentle pressure on the teeth, if you keep the above-mentioned tips in mind, you can help avoid the issues causing your tooth sensitivity. When braces are first put on the teeth, there can be some increased sensitivity at first, but this should subside in a couple of days. Any discomfort when you first get braces or when you get your braces adjusted can be alleviated by over-the-counter pain medications, ice, rest, and eating soft foods.
Alternatives to Braces
If you’re concerned about how you’ll do with braces and sensitive teeth, Invisalign may be a better solution for you. Invisalign is an effective way to straighten teeth, and patients report the same results as braces when worn correctly. Since the aligners are removable, patients are able to maintain their oral hygiene with ease, and as we now know, poor oral hygiene can contribute to tooth sensitivity. Another benefit of Invisalign is there aren’t any brackets or wires on the teeth, which can help patients be more comfortable in their everyday activities.
When it comes to sensitive teeth and orthodontic treatment, be sure to let your orthodontist know about your concerns before beginning treatment. With some slight changes, you can help reduce tooth sensitivity and be able to live free from pain and discomfort.
Charleston Orthodontic Specialists is ready to help you find the right product to help you achieve a spectacular smile. Call (843) 4-BRACES to learn more.