Cavities are a common reason for sensitive teeth. They are a nuisance no matter the season, but during the warm months of summer, simple pleasures such as a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade can provide you as much discomfort as nourishment. Although Dr. Coon can ease your tooth sensitivity by treating its source, the best medicine is always prevention. Follow this advice to strengthen your defense against tooth sensitivity this summer.
What to Avoid
Soda, fruit juice, iced tea, lemonade, and many other popular beverages contain large amounts of refined sugar. When plaque processes refined sugar, the by-product is lactic acid, which plaque secretes onto the surfaces of your teeth. Your enamel, the hard protective layer that coats the outside of your teeth, is comprised of mineral crystals, mainly calcium and phosphate. Although enamel cannot repair itself if damaged or cracked (enamel contains no living cells), it can strengthen itself with these minerals, in a process called remineralization, when weakened. When acid attacks, it siphons minerals from your teeth, weakens your enamel, and prevents it from remineralizing. As enamel’s integrity is compromised, bacteria can slip past, attack your inner tooth, and lead to tooth decay.
As you probably know, water is the safest refreshment. It contains no sugars or additives, and it moistens your oral cavity to prevent dry mouth. If you eat something sweet or drink a sugary beverage, rinse your mouth with water afterward to wash away sugar and plaque. Also, drink quickly. The longer you sip your beverage, the longer your teeth are exposed to damaging elements.
Maintain Your Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Even if you drink nothing but water all summer and eat only healthy food, it is still important to manually care for your dental health. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once to prevent bacteria and plaque from residing long enough to cause damage. You should attend a dental checkup every six months. Dr. Coon can inspect the state of your oral health and advise you on treating any instances of infection. To learn more about caring for your dental health, contact Grinnell Street Dental at (307) 672-7567 to schedule an appointment. We welcome patients from Sheridan, WY and the surrounding communities.
