There are many reasons why patients experience sensitivity. Gum recession, worn dental enamel, dental decay, cracked or broken teeth, gum disease … all of these conditions can result in the zinging sensation felt when exposed to hot or cold beverages or foods; sweet treats; or cold air. A visit to your family dentist will get to the heart of the matter and provide the correction needed to bring relief.
When tooth sensitivity occurs suddenly, the problem may be due to decay or infection that has permeated the tooth impacting the nerve. A root canal may be needed to repair the tooth. Failure to complete this treatment may result in the loss of the tooth.
Sensitivity can be the result of whitening too frequently. The whitening agents penetrate the tooth to remove stain and whiten teeth. Over exposure can mean sensitivity.
Acidity in the foods and beverages we consume can have an impact on dental enamel. Any time the protective coating on our teeth is breached, tooth sensitivity can occur.
A visit to your family dentist will get to the heart of the matter and provide the correction needed to bring relief.
Some things that we think we are doing right with our dental care actually are causing more harm. Brushing with a hard bristle tooth brush or scrubbing teeth with a heavy hand can lead to premature gum erosion. This practice is under the guise of keeping dental plaque controlled. However, regular brushing with a soft bristle brush twice per day and flossing daily are far more advantageous to healthy teeth and gums.
Once conditions that create sensitivity exist, there are many things available to help:
- Tooth pastes and gels specifically designed to aid in sensitivity are available.
- Fluoride rinses may help.
- Bonding exposed dentin can not only protect against sensitivity, but provide a cosmetic enhancement as well.
- Worn enamel from grinding can be eased with the use of a mouth guard.
- Decay or cracked teeth can be repaired to halt discomfort.
Consistent and regular visits with your family dentist are required to remove dental plaque that forms on teeth. In addition to the thorough cleaning and polishing to keep teeth looking their best, a dental exam will be conducted checking for potentially serious problems like oral cancer. Other issues can be halted before they require extensive and costly repair including dental decay, broken teeth, and gum disease.
Contact our experienced dental team at Family Smiles Dental Group for more information about keeping your teeth and gums healthy.