Tooth Sensitivity- All You Need to Know
Do you sometimes find eating or drinking different foods or beverages to be painful? Do you ever find the sensation of hot or cold temperatures hitting your teeth make you wince? If this sounds like you, there is a good chance you are experiencing tooth sensitivity. Experiencing tooth sensitivity can be experienced by a variety of factors, such as:
- Cavities (tooth decay)
- Gum Disease
- Exposed Tooth Root
- Fractured Teeth
- Worn Tooth Enamel
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
There is a layer of enamel that covers the crowns of your teeth. The crown is the section when the tooth meets the gum line. There is a layer under the gum line that is called the ‘cementum.’ This is what protects the root of the tooth. Under the cementum and enamel is dentin. When the dentin loses the layer of protective covering, it causes foods or drinks, hot or cold, to reach the nerves that are found inside of the tooth. This is when many people experience hypersensitivity.
Is There Treatment?
In short, the answer is yes! However, the form of treatment that you receive will vary on the cause of the sensitivity. There are five primary forms of treatment that may be available to you.
- Flouride Gel: This is a procedure that takes place right in the dental office. It works to strengthen the enamel of the tooth and helps in blocking the transmission of any hot, cold, or uncomfortable sensations that you may be experiencing. This is a rapid procedure and can be re-applied at each dental visit.
- Sensitive Toothpaste: This is one way to start relieving pain before you make it to the dentist. Remember, this is a temporary fix. Sensitive toothpaste has compounds that block any sensitivity that may reach the nerve. Depending on how severe your pain is, it may take multiple times before you begin to experience any relief.
- Root Canal: In extreme cases, your dentist may recommend a root canal. This is typically a last resort if the pain is persistent and severe and no other forms of treatment have worked.
- Surgical Gum Graft: This procedure will take place in the office and is when a protecting gum graft is placed over the area where gum is no longer protecting your tooth. This works well with reducing the hypersensitivity and protects the tooth.
- Bonding or Crown: These options are used to help with the decaying gum line.
All of these are great options, and your dentist will know what treatment is best for your needs. Taking care of your teeth is crucial, and at Smile Brightly Dental, we want to make sure we are doing all we can to help our patients feel and look their best. If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, please give us a call. We can be reached at 586-573-7700. We look forward to hearing from you!