About 1 in 8 adults suffer from sensitive teeth, but it doesn’t have to be a life-changing issue. There are several proven treatments that reduce sensitivity and make your teeth more comfortable to chew, eat, and drink.
Tooth Sensitivity Causes
Teeth sensitivity typically develops when the outer protective coating called enamel is worn away or the root of the tooth is exposed. In these cases, the nerve within the tooth’s hollow center becomes irritated by hot or cold temperatures, sweet or sour foods, or other incoming irritants.Robina Dental
During your dental checkup and cleaning, your dentist can apply a fluoride gel that works like a fluoride varnish to help strengthen your enamel against the loss that leads to teeth sensitivity. Your dentist may also use desensitizing toothpaste to protect your teeth from the irritants that trigger the pain.
Change Your Diet
Avoiding acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes, and consuming too much sugary food and drinks can reduce your chances of developing tooth sensitivity. Additionally, avoiding clenching and grinding your teeth (bruxism) can also significantly reduce the amount of wear and tear on your teeth and enamel.
Toothbrushing is another effective way to fight sensitivity caused by tooth decay and other oral hygiene problems, but be sure to brush gently. Aggressive brushing can also damage the gums and weaken the protective enamel.
Switching to a gentle toothpaste with potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride can also reduce the sensation of sensitivity, says Dr. Jo, adding that toothpastes with potassium nitrate “soothe the nerves inside your teeth, helping them not to send pain signals when they’re exposed to a trigger,” such as a cold air blast or hot coffee.
Visiting your dentist regularly and maintaining good oral hygiene habits are essential to prevent sensitivity from happening in the first place. Your dentist can recommend a routine of regular cleanings and exams to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which often lead to sensitive teeth.
Your dentist can also recommend in-office treatments that can reduce sensitivity and protect your teeth from a range of potential triggers, including gel fluoride, bonding, crowns, inlays and dental bonding, and gum grafts.
Gum grafts can be used to cover up areas of weakened or damaged gum tissue that is pulling away from a tooth’s root. A gum graft is especially useful in patients who suffer from gum recession, which can expose the sensitive roots and thereby cause pain.
Tooth Pain and Sensitivity Can Go Away on Its Own
In some cases, sensitivity that doesn’t go away can indicate something more serious. For instance, if the pain you’re experiencing is accompanied by sharp and throbbing pain that radiates down your jaw, you should see a doctor right away. In severe cases, the pain can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as abscess or an infection.
If you have sensitive teeth and want to find a solution, schedule an appointment with Tompkins Dental today. Our experienced team can provide you with the treatment you need to relieve your sensitivity.