Hyper-Sensitive?? Dental Sensitivity is a Common Dental Issue, here are a Few Tips to Ease Your Pain
Sensitive teeth or dentin hyper-sensitivity is a common dental issue that involves pain or discomfort when your teeth are exposed to foods and drinks whether hot or cold, sweet or acidic foods or such stimuli as just cold air.
The Causes of Dental Sensitivity Generally Fall into these 5 Areas:
1. Tooth Decay-Cavities can expose the dentin layer of the tooth creating sensitivity.
2. Worn Enamel-Acidic foods and drinks, excessive brushing or grinding the teeth that wears down the protective tooth enamel.
3. Gum Recession-As gums recede, the roots of the teeth are exposed which are not encased with enamel.
4. Cracked Teeth-Cracks expose the dentin layer causing the teeth to be sensitive
5. Dental Procedures-Recent tooth whitening, fillings or crowns can make teeth temporality sensitive.
Symptoms of Dental Sensitivity:
1. Sharp pain when eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods or drinks
2. Pain when flossing or brushing
3. Discomfort when inhaling cold air
Treatments for Sensitive Teeth
1. Sensitive Care Toothpastes- Several toothpaste brands offer paste that help block the sensation and help protect the tooth enamel.
2. Fluoride Treatment-Fluoride can help strengthen tooth enamel.
3. Dental Bonding-Application of a Bonding Resin to the exposed sensitive root.
4. Surgical Gum Graft-Gum grafts are used for severe gum recession to protect the root from stimuli
5. Root Canal-In severe cases, the removal of the nerve which is causing the pain
4 Tips to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity
1. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush gently in small circles.
2. Avoid acidic foods and drinks. Rinse with water after consuming acidic foods and drinks.
3. Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash.
4. Protect your teeth at night with a mouthguard if you are prone to grinding.
Persistent or severe tooth sensitivity suggests a need to seek professional evaluation by your dentist to determine the underlying cause. Your dentist can evaluate and provide the appropriate treatment to keep you feeling and smiling your best.
Plainsboro Dental Care offers compassionate, professional family dental care. Call 609-799-4422 to schedule an appointment today.