If the sensations you get from drinking an ice cold glass of water or a hot cup of coffee or tea seem to have become more exaggerated you may be experiencing tooth sensitivity. If not treated or controlled it may become difficult to eat many of the foods that you enjoy or even to expose your teeth to a breath of cold air. So what has brought about this change?

It could be that your enamel is wearing down. Tooth enamel is nature’s way of protecting a tooth’s nerve center that when exposed to outside elements can kindle the painful reactions that you are feeling. There are several ways to strengthen your tooth enamel, but you may have to sacrifice a few of your favorites in the effort. The acids and sugars from citrus fruits and carbonated soda for instance, eat away at your tooth enamel and cause it to slowly deteriorate.

It’s important to brush and floss your teeth every day in order to maintain a healthy mouth but there’s a right way to brush if you want to preserve the strength of your tooth enamel. The angle of the bristles and the pressure that you exert when brushing both factor in. Your dental hygienist will be happy to recommend a toothbrush and show you how to use it for the best results.

Preventive home care pays off for the patients of Rippe Dental Associates. Read all about our rewards program on the website homepage.