1. Enamel Erosion:
   • The enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of the tooth. Over time, enamel can wear down due to acidic foods, drinks, or aggressive brushing, exposing the underlying dentin.
2. Gum Recession:
   • Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back, exposing the roots of the teeth. Since the roots don’t have protective enamel, they are more susceptible to sensitivity.
3. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism):
   • Grinding or clenching your teeth can wear down enamel, exposing the dentin and leading to sensitivity.
4. Dental Procedures:
   • Some dental treatments, such as teeth whitening, fillings, or cleanings, can temporarily increase tooth sensitivity.
5. Cracked or Damaged Teeth:
   • A cracked or chipped tooth can expose the dentin or even the tooth’s nerve, resulting in sensitivity.
6. Tooth Decay:
   • Cavities or decay can penetrate through the enamel to the dentin, causing pain and sensitivity.

1. Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush:
   • A soft-bristled toothbrush can prevent enamel wear and gum recession. Avoid brushing too hard, as this can damage your enamel.
2. Choose the Right Toothpaste:
   • Opt for toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. These formulas typically contain compounds like potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride, which help block the pain signals from the tooth to the nerve.
3. Watch Your Diet:
   • Limit the consumption of acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, sodas, and vinegar. Rinse your mouth with water after consuming these items to help neutralize the acids.
4. Practice Good Oral Hygiene:
   • Brush twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to enamel erosion and gum disease.
5. Wear a Mouthguard:
   • If you grind your teeth, especially at night, a custom-fitted mouthguard can protect your enamel from wear.
6. Visit Your Dentist Regularly:
   • Regular dental checkups can help identify early signs of gum disease, cavities, or enamel wear, allowing for prompt treatment.

1. Desensitizing Toothpaste:
   • Over-the-counter or prescription desensitizing toothpaste can help reduce sensitivity over time by blocking the pain signals to the nerve.
2. Fluoride Treatments:
   • Your dentist can apply a fluoride gel or varnish to strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.
3. Dental Bonding:
   • In cases of exposed dentin or receding gums, your dentist may apply a bonding agent to cover the sensitive areas.
4. Gum Grafts:
   • For severe gum recession, a surgical gum graft can cover exposed roots and reduce sensitivity.
5. Root Canal:
   • If sensitivity is due to extensive decay or damage to the tooth’s nerve, a root canal may be necessary to remove the affected nerve and eliminate the pain.

At TREC Dental, we believe that each day we are given a unique opportunity to make the world a better place and we are committed to making a tangible difference in our communities. Over the past month, many of our locations have been busy giving back to our community with our Spin to Give Pop-up booth.

June 2024 Social Impact Summary:

• 4th Street Dental raises $2500 for the Elizabeth Fry Society of Calgary using the Spin to Give pop up booth at the Lilac Festival.
• TREC Dental Foundation and the Jaffer Foundation raised $19,575 for the World Partnership Walk.
• TREC Dental donated $2450 to Woods Homes using the Spin to Give pop up booth at the Day1Dads charity golf tournament.
• TREC Dental Foundation uses the Spin to Give Pop-Up to donate $10,000 cash and over $100,000 in equipment for Alberta Dentists for Ukraine.
• TREC Dental volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House making breakfast for the families staying at the house.
• Crestmont Dental volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House with their Home for Dinner program.
• University District Dental donates funds for 3 important charities using the Spin to Give Pop-Up at the University District Night Market. ($1000 for Made by Momma, $1000 for I Can for Kids, and $500 for The Centre for Sexuality)

When it comes to oral health, many people focus on the basics such as brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly. However, there are several aspects of oral health that often go overlooked. Here are five things that people rarely consider when thinking about their oral health:

1. Tongue cleaning: While most people are diligent about brushing their teeth, cleaning the tongue is often neglected. The tongue harbors bacteria and food particles that can contribute to bad breath and oral health issues. Using a tongue scraper or brushing your tongue can help remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.

2. Mouthwash usage: Specific types of mouthwash are an excellent addition to a good oral hygiene routine, as they can reach areas of the mouth that a toothbrush and floss may miss. Mouthwash can help reduce plaque buildup, fight bad breath, and prevent gum disease. Incorporating mouthwash into your daily routine can provide added protection to your oral health. For specific and effective mouthwash/fluoride rinses, talk to your dentist for recommendations

3. Stress management: Stress has a significant impact on our overall health, including our oral health. Chronic stress can lead to teeth grinding, jaw clenching, and other oral habits that can damage teeth and gums. Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, or therapy, can help prevent oral health issues caused by stress.

4. Diet and nutrition: The foods we eat play a crucial role in our oral health. A diet high in sugar and acidic foods can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. On the other hand, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products can help maintain strong teeth and healthy gums. Choosing nutritious foods and avoiding sugary snacks can greatly benefit your oral health.

5. Proper hydration: Staying hydrated is not only essential for overall health but also for oral health. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy mouth by washing away food particles, neutralizing acids, and preventing dry mouth. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep your mouth clean and hydrated, reducing the risk of oral health issues.

By considering these often overlooked aspects of oral health, you can take proactive steps to maintain a healthy smile and prevent oral health problems. Taking care of your tongue, using mouthwash, managing stress, eating a balanced diet, and staying hydrated are all important factors in achieving optimal oral health. Incorporating these practices into your daily routine can help you maintain a healthy smile for years to come.

March is Nutrition Month, a time to focus on the importance of making healthy food choices to support overall well-being. While many of us are aware of the impact our diet has on our physical health, we may not always consider how it affects our oral health. The truth is, what we eat plays a significant role in maintaining a healthy smile.

Foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. When we consume these types of foods, bacteria in our mouths feed on the sugars and produce acids that attack our tooth enamel. Over time, this can lead to cavities and other oral health issues.

On the other hand, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help promote good oral health. These foods provide essential nutrients like calcium, Vitamin C, and antioxidants that strengthen teeth and gums, fight off bacteria, and reduce inflammation.

In addition to choosing nutrient-rich foods, it’s also important to practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly. These habits, combined with a healthy diet, can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.

So this Nutrition Month, take a moment to consider the impact your food choices have on your oral health. Choose foods that support a healthy smile and make it a priority to take care of your teeth and gums. Your mouth will thank you for it!