15 Jul What causes tooth sensitivity?
Patients who experience tooth sensitivity describe it as a zinging (or painful) sensation that occurs usually due to hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods. Even opening your mouth on a cold day can result in a very uncomfortable experience. Your dentist has many solutions so you should never suffer with tooth sensitivity.
How Did This Happen?
Overzealous brushing, teeth grinding and jaw clenching, and gum erosion are some of the reasons why you may be suffering from sensitivity.
The correct way to brush your teeth involves using a soft bristle brush, fluoride toothpaste, and a gentle approach. It is not necessary to scrub your teeth to clean them adequately. Brushing too vigorously can result in you literally brushing away the protective enamel covering on your teeth.
When enamel becomes worn, the interior of the tooth is exposed resulting in sensitivity. Dental enamel cannot be regenerated, so when it is gone, it’s gone.
Gum erosion can result in the root of a tooth being exposed. Gum erosion can be due to harsh brushing or gum disease. While genetics may play a role for some, it is very often other factors like tobacco use and/or negligent oral health care that contribute. Aging, illnesses, and medications can play a role as well.
A cracked or broken tooth can be very sensitive. Patients who grind their teeth, use their teeth like tools to open packages, or bite their nails may experience problems associated with worn or fractured teeth.
Treatment for Tooth Sensitivity
There are a multitude of toothpastes, gels, and oral rinses available to aid in relieving tooth sensitivity.
Fluoride treatments may be recommended as a way to strengthen dental enamel.
If sensitivity is due to a cracked tooth, your dentist may need to perform a root canal. Once bacteria has permeated a tooth impacting the nerve of the tooth, the only way to save the tooth is with endodontic therapy. This procedure cleans out the canals of the damaged tooth … very often a dental crown is used to complete treatment.
Your dentist will recommend the best products and offer solutions to bring you relief from tooth sensitivity. Brush twice daily, floss, and follow your dentist’s advice for optimum results.