Tooth Sensitivity Explained: Causes, Treatments, Tips
One in every eight Americans experiences tooth sensitivity,referred to in the dental field as dentinal hypersensitivity.Whether triggered by hot or cold foods, sweets, or even during brushing, sensitivity cantake a toll on everydaylife.Inthis blog, we willexplore the causes of tooth sensitivity, effective strategies to alleviate discomfort, and guidance on when to seek professional dental advice.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is primarily caused by exposed dentin. Dentin is the hard tissue beneath the enamel, which containsmicroscopic tubules connecting to nerve endings. When enamel wears away due tofactors, such asaggressive brushing, teeth grinding, gum recession,cavities, cracked or chipped teeth,and enamel erosion, external stimuli can reach the nerves, leading to tooth pain.Identifyingthe rootcauses ofsensitivity is crucial for determiningthe righttreatmentcourse to alleviate discomfort and maintaingoodoral health. Through a comprehensive exam, your dentistcan pinpoint the specific cause of your discomfort and designa treatment plan to provide relief.
Treatments for Sensitive Teeth
Desensitizing Toothpaste:Desensitizing toothpaste containsactive ingredients,such as potassium nitrate or strontiumchloride.Thesecomponents block nerve signalsto reduce sensitivity when exposed to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli. Both over-the-counterand prescription options are available; consult your dentist to determinethe best fit for your smile.
Fluoride:Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral known for its ability to strengthen tooth enamel. Your dentist can apply fluoride to the sensitive areas of your teeth to fortify theenamel. To complement in-office treatments, your dental provider may recommend at-home fluoride treatments in the form of toothpaste, mouthwash, foam, or gel.
Bonding:Since enamel only covers the crown of the tooth and does not extend under the gum line, patients with gum recession often experience sensitivity. Dental bonding can cover the exposed areato eliminatesensitivityin patients with mild to moderate cases of gum recession. Your dentist can apply thispainless treatmentin just one visit.
Surgical Gum Graft: For those with advanced gum recession causing tooth sensitivity, a surgical gum graft is a viablesolution. This procedure entails harvesting a small portionof gum tissue from the roof of the mouth and grafting it onto the exposed area.
Root Canal:If less invasive treatments do not eliminatesensitivity, your dentist may recommend a root canal.In this procedure, your dentist removesthe infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth and sealsthe canal to prevent further infection. Contrary to common belief, root canals are painless and highly effective in relieving tooth pain.
Whento Seek Professional Dental Care
Tooth sensitivitycan be painful and make everyday tasks, such as eating and drinking, extremely uncomfortable. We recommendscheduling an examination with your general dental providerif you experience tooth sensitivity frequentlyafter consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages. Tooth sensitivity can indicatevarious underlying issues. Therefore, it is critical to address this symptom as soon as possible to help prevent a potential dental emergency in the future.
Understanding the causes and treatment options for tooth sensitivity is the first step toward restoringa pain-free smile. If you areexperiencingsensitivity, do nothesitate to reach out to your dentist for personalized advice and a comprehensive examination.Proactive dental care is the key to maintainingoptimaloral health andfunction.
