Sensitive Teeth: What Treatment Options Are Available for You?

Tooth sensitivity causes include the exposure of your teeth’s underlying layers, leading to dentin hypersensitivity. Thankfully, there are various treatment options available to help alleviate the discomfort. Let’s explore the causes of sensitive teeth and both at-home and professional treatments so you can enjoy eating and drinking without pain.

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity

The exposure of dentin, the layer underneath the enamel, often causes tooth sensitivity. When the enamel peels away or the gums recede, the dentin becomes more vulnerable to temperature changes and certain foods. Some common triggers for tooth sensitivity include:

• Hot beverages like coffee or tea
• Cold foods such as ice cream
• Sweet or acidic foods that can irritate sensitive teeth

This ailment can range between mild and severe, with some experiencing pain while brushing or eating, especially tooth sensitivity to colds. Understanding the underlying cause can help guide treatment and relieve discomfort.

Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Enamel Erosion: Enamel is the hard outer surface of your teeth, which protects the dentin. When it wears away, the underlying nerves in the tooth become exposed, leading to sensitivity. Factors that cause enamel erosion include:

• Acidic foods and beverages like curry, citrus fruits, soda, or wine
• Brushing vigoursly which can wear down enamel over time

Gum Recession: As gums recede, they pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots, which are more sensitive than the crowns. Receding gums are often a result of:

• Gum disease
• Brushing too aggressively
• Aging

Dental Procedures: Sensitivity can also occur following dental treatments such as fillings, crowns, or teeth whitening. This sensitivity usually fades within a few days to weeks but can sometimes linger if the procedure involves deep footwork.

Other Factors

• Cracked teeth: Cracks in teeth can expose the sensitive inner section of the tooth, causing pain.
• Teeth grinding (bruxism): Grinding can cause enamel wear and result in tooth sensitivity.
• Certain dental products: Whitening toothpaste or highly abrasive toothpaste can exacerbate sensitivity.

At-Home Treatment Treatment

If you have tooth sensitivity, several at-home treatments can help manage and alleviate the discomfort.

Desensitizing Toothpaste: One of the most effective at-home treatments is desensitizing toothpaste. These toothpastes contain special compounds like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride, which help block pain signals from the nerves inside your teeth. Regular use can reduce sensitivity over time.

Fluoride Treatments: Fluoride strengthens enamel and reduces sensitivity. Over-the-counter fluoride mouth rinses or treatments can help protect your teeth and make them less sensitive.

Proper Oral Hygiene Practices: Brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush can assist in preventing additional injury to sensitive regions. Furthermore, flossing every day and using fluoride toothpaste will help maintain your teeth’s health and prevent the possibility of dental sensitivity.

In-Office Dental Treatments

If at-home remedies don’t provide relief, there are professional treatments that your dentist near me can recommend to treat sensitive teeth.

Fluoride Varnishes and Gels: Fluoride varnishes and gels applied by your dentist can relieve enamel and decrease sensitivity. These high-concentration fluoride treatments are more potent than over-the-counter and can offer long-lasting benefits.

Dental Bonding or Sealants: Occasionally, dental bonding or sealants can be applied to exposed roots or areas with damaged enamel. This procedure helps protect sensitive areas and reduce discomfort.

Gum Grafting: If you are experiencing sensitivity due to gum recession, your dentist may recommend gum grafting. This surgery entails transferring gum tissue from another part of your mouth and connecting it to the recession to hide the exposed roots.

Root Canal Therapy: A root canal may be necessary in severe situations where other therapies have failed. This treatment removes the nerve and tissue inside a tooth to stop sensitivity and prevent further damage.

Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications

Avoid Acidic Foods and Beverages: Minimize the intake of acidic foods and beverages, including citrus, soda, and alcohol, to safeguard your enamel and reduce sensitivity. After consuming acidic substances, rinse your mouth with water to neutralize the acid.

Use of Mouthguards: If you grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard can protect your teeth and enamel from the pressure, helping prevent further tooth sensitivity. Your kids’ dentist near me can help fit a mouthguard for children if needed.

Regular Dental Check-ups: Routine visits to your dentist in Paramount are essential for maintaining oral health. Regular check-ups ensure that potential issues, such as cavities or gum disease, are detected early and treated before they cause significant discomfort.

Preventing Future Tooth Pain

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Use fluoride toothpaste, brush twice daily, and floss regularly to shield your teeth from cavities, gum issues, and enamel erosion that can cause sensitivity.

Use of Appropriate Dental Products: Choose toothpaste and mouthwash that are specifically designed for sensitive teeth. These products help protect enamel and reduce irritation caused by everyday activities.

Dietary Considerations: Eating foods rich in calcium and avoiding excessive sugar and acidity supports enamel strength and gum health, preventing sensitivity.

Conclusion

Tooth sensitivity can be addressed with the appropriate treatments and practices. Whether you choose at-home remedies or in-office professional treatments, it’s essential to address the cause of your discomfort to find lasting relief. If sensitivity persists or worsens, see our dentist near you for a thorough evaluation and treatment plan.

Book an appointment with Paramount Dental and Braces today to learn how we can help reduce your tooth sensitivity and restore your smile to comfort.