Summertime calls for ice cream and other cold treats. For those with sensitive teeth, it may be a pain trying to keep cool in this heat. Tooth sensitivity (aka dentin hypersensitivity or root sensitivity)is a common yet painful condition triggered by exposure to hot, cold, or acidic food and beverages.
Why so sensitive?
The part of the tooth above the gum line is called the crown, and it’s protected by a layer of enamel. Below the gum line is the root, which is protected by a layer of cementum. Dentin is the inner layer beneath both enamel and cementum. Teeth become sensitive when the inner layer (dentin) gets exposed.
Not quite as dense as enamel and cementum, dentin contains small hollow tubes that cause hot or cold sensations to reach the nerves within the tooth if its protective layer wears off. This can cause some serious pain!
There are various causes for tooth sensitivity including:
- Cracked filling
- Exposed root
- Fractured tooth
- Gum disease
- Receding gums
- Tooth decay
- Worn enamel
Toughening Up Your Teeth
The good news is there are treatments for sensitive teeth. Once your dentist gets to the root of the problem (no pun intended), he or she can make a plan of action for relieving your discomfort.
Here are some treatment options:
Bonding:a simple restoration that bonds tooth-colored material to the tooth without the removal of any enamel.
Crown: a cap or covering placed over the natural tooth to repair damage that causes pain.
Dental appliance:a mouthguard to stop teeth grinding or clenching and prevent further enamel damage.
Desensitizing toothpaste: specialized toothpaste with ingredients that block the transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve.
Fillings: repairs tooth decay by removing the decayed portion and filling in the cavity (hole) to prevent further dental problems.
Fluoride: an in-office treatment that strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent decay.
Gum graft: a surgical procedure that repairs lost gum tissue (gum recession) to protect the root and prevent pain.
Root canal: sometimes the last resort when pain persists despite other remedies, which consists of removing the painful or infected pulp, cleaning the area, and sealing it.
Sometimes tooth sensitivity is unavoidable, but it many cases it can be prevented with good oral hygiene by brushing with a soft-bristled toothpaste and fluoride toothpaste as well as flossing on a daily basis. Focus on gentle, circular strokes and avoid brushing with too much pressure. Take this quiz to see how sensitive your teeth are! https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/sensitive-teeth-quiz
If you are suffering from tooth sensitivity, call us at 954-344-4488, or complete an online appointment request to schedule your consultation.