Does a cold dessert or a sip of hot coffee sometimes cause a painful experience for you? Does brushing or flossing occasionally cause you pain? If so, you may have sensitive teeth. In this article we will discuss what causes sensitive teeth and what you can do about it.
Possible causes for sensitive teeth include:
- Cavities (tooth decay)
- Gum disease
- Fractured teeth
- Worn or loose fillings
- Damaged tooth enamel
- An exposed tooth root
When your teeth are healthy, a layer of enamel protects the part of your teeth above the gum line. Under the gum line there are two other protective layers, the cementum, which protects the root, and below that, dentin.
Dentin is not as dense as enamel. When dentin loses its protective covering of enamel or cementum, heat and cold or acidic foods can reach the nerves and cells inside the tooth. Dentin may also be exposed and compromised when gums recede. The results are tooth sensitivity.
What can be done about sensitive teeth:
Sensitive teeth can be treated, but the course of treatment will vary depending upon the cause of the sensitivity. Your dentist may suggest one of a variety of treatments. The simply first step is a desensitizing toothpaste. This type of toothpaste contains compounds that help block transmission of pain from the tooth surface to the nerve. It can help over time to reduce the sensitivity.
Some in office techniques include the application of a fluoride gel which strengthens tooth enamel and reduces the transmission of tooth pain. A filling, crown, inlay or bonding may be used to correct a tooth decay, a fractured tooth, or similar issue that results in sensitivity.
In more severe cases, a gum graft can be done to replace lost gum tissue in the area of the sensitivity. If gum disease is at the heart of the issue, it needs to be treated first to stop any further decline in gum health. A root canal is another common treatment for sensitive teeth. Root canals are performed where sensitivity is severe and persistent and cannot be treated by other means. Eliminating the root removes the pain and sensitivity.
Proper oral hygiene is the key to preventing sensitive teeth. See your dentist if you have any sensitive teeth that prevent you from enjoying that hot beverage or that cold, sweet dessert. Your daily oral hygiene is important, and you should immediately raise concerns about tooth sensitivity.
Find a beautiful smile and a compassionate, caring dentist at Smile Designer.