Fix Tooth Sensitivity
If you have found that over time your teeth have become sensitive to hot and cold foods or you are genetically prone to sensitivity, you may try to avoid certain activities to prevent discomfort. Brushing your teeth, eating, drinking, and even going outside in extremely cold weather can bring on quick sharp pain in your teeth. Your tooth sensitivity could be attributed to worn down tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots. In other instances, your tooth sensitivity could be a symptom of a cavity, a crack or a chip, a worn filling or even gum disease.
If you sensitive teeth are causing you problems and discomfort, make an appointment with your dentist. The persistence of the sensitivity could be an indicator of a more serious issue which can be confirmed by a dentist. Additionally, a dentist can rule out other underlying issues of your tooth pain. There are a number of treatments your dentist can recommend based on your individual case. Here are some of the options:
- Desensitizing toothpaste: Desensitizing toothpaste can prove to help block pain from tooth sensitivity after multiple consistent applications. There are numerous brands and types of over-the-counter toothpastes to try. The dentist may have a recommendation for the right one to try in your case.
- Fluoride: At your next dental appointment, the dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment to address weakened enamel. Your tooth sensitivity could be coming from weak spots in the enamel so an at home prescription fluoride treatment applied with a custom tray might continue to reduce your pain from the sensitivity.
- Desensitizing or bonding: If your tooth sensitivity is coming from an exposed root surface, the dentist may recommend applying a dental bonding resin to the root surface to block the exposure. Depending on your case, the dentist may need to apply a local anesthetic before applying the bonding resin.
- Surgical gum graft: If your tooth is sensitive due to lack of gum tissue on the root, the dentist may recommend surgery to replace the missing gum tissue. A small amount of gum tissue in one area in your mouth can be removed and placed in a different are of your mouth. Once the root is covered by gum again, the sensitivity should be reduced.
- Root canal: Once other treatment options have not provided you with relief, the dentist may suggest root canal therapy. Root canals are used to address infections and decay in your tooth’s dental pulp. It is a more serious treatment option but it stops the cause of the tooth sensitivity.
To prevent tooth decay and gum disease from causing tooth sensitivity, it is important to brush your teeth two times a day, floss, and maintain regular twice yearly dental appointments. Dentists suggest using soft bristled brushed and fluoride toothpaste with a gentle motion. Talk to your dentist if you think you are grinding your teeth; the dentist may suggest a mouth guard to prevent any tooth damage. Keeping your diet free from acidic foods and drinks will help prevent damage to your tooth enamel.