Sensitive teeth can make everyday activities like eating, drinking, and even breathing through the mouth painful. They can also interfere with enjoying hot or cold foods and beverages and even sweet or acidic items, leading to a constant sense of unease and irritation. Understanding the root causes of tooth sensitivity and the treatment options available allows you to take proactive steps in managing your oral health.
What is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity, or dentin hypersensitivity, is characterized by a sharp, temporary pain in one or more teeth when exposed to stimuli such as hot or cold temperatures, sweet or acidic foods, or cold air. This pain occurs when the dentin, the tooth’s underlying layer, becomes exposed due to receding gums or enamel erosion. The exposed dentin allows external stimuli to reach the tooth’s nerves, causing discomfort.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
- Enamel erosion
- Gum recession
- Tooth decay
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Worn fillings
- Post-dental procedures sensitivity
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How Do Dentists Treat Sensitive Teeth?
Fluoride Treatments
During an in-office fluoride treatment, the dentist applies a concentrated fluoride solution to the affected teeth. This can help remineralize the enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks and less sensitive to external stimuli.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the exposed root surfaces or sensitive areas of the teeth. This resin covers the exposed dentin and provides a protective barrier, reducing sensitivity.
Surgical Gum Graft
A surgical gum graft is recommended for patients with significant gum recession. During this procedure, the dentist takes tissue from another part of the mouth, usually the palate, and grafts it onto the receded areas. This covers the exposed roots, reducing sensitivity and improving the appearance of the gums.
Root Canal Therapy
For severe cases of tooth sensitivity where other treatments have failed, a root canal may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the damaged or infected pulp from the inside of the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the area, and then sealing it. Root canal therapy eliminates the source of sensitivity and pain by removing the affected nerve tissue.
Laser Treatments
Laser treatments offer a modern and minimally invasive solution for tooth sensitivity. Dentists use a specialized laser to target and seal the tubules in the dentin, preventing external stimuli from reaching the nerves. This procedure is quick, painless, and effective in providing long-term relief from sensitivity.
How To Protect Sensitive Teeth At Home?
- Proper Oral Hygiene Practices: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques to avoid damaging the enamel and gums. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and prevent gum recession. Avoid aggressive brushing, which can wear down the enamel and expose the dentin, leading to sensitivity.
- Dietary Recommendations: Limit acidic foods and beverages like citrus fruits, soda, and wine, as they can erode the enamel. Instead, opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products, and drink plenty of water to help rinse away acids and food particles.
- Desensitizing Toothpaste: Desensitizing toothpastes contain compounds that help block the transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve. For best results, use desensitizing toothpaste regularly as part of your daily oral care routine. It may take a few weeks of consistent use to notice a significant reduction in sensitivity.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: During dental check-ups, your dentist can identify potential issues early, provide professional fluoride treatments, and offer personalized advice on caring for sensitive teeth. Routine cleanings help remove plaque and tartar, preventing gum disease and further enamel erosion.
Schedule a Dental Consultation in Richmond, VA
If you’re struggling with tooth sensitivity, don’t let it interfere with your daily life any longer. Contact us to schedule a dental consultation at Glen Forest Dental Co. in Richmond, VA. Our team will work with you to understand your unique situation and provide the appropriate treatments to help deal with your sensitivities.