Fix Tooth Sensitivity

Regular visits to your dentist are just as important as routine appointments with you doctor. Making an appointment with the dentist is especially important when patients experience any discomfort when consuming cold food or drinks. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, about 40 million people in the United States experience some type of tooth sensitivity in their lifetime.

For patients with sensitive teeth, some activities like brushing, eating, and drinking, can cause tooth pain. In most cases, sensitive teeth are caused by tooth enamel which has been worn down or exposed tooth roots. However, in some cases, the pain is from other factors including cavities, cracked or chipped teeth, a damaged filling, or even gum disease.

Patients who are suffering from sensitive teeth should schedule an appointment with their dentist right away. The dentist can help identify if there are any underlying issues which are causing the tooth pain. Based on the cause of the pain and the specific details of your case, the dentist might suggest the following treatments and solutions:

• Sensitive Toothpaste: After a few uses, sensitive toothpaste can aid in blocking the pain associated with sensitive teeth. There are numerous different products available which are affordable and can be purchased over-the-counter. Your dentist can help determine which product may work well for your specific case.
• Fluoride: A fluoride treatment can be applied to the sensitive areas of the teeth. Fluoride helps to strengthen the enamel of the tooth and minimize the pain. They dentist may also encourage you to use a prescription fluoride treatment at home.
• Desensitizing or bonding: In some cases where the root surface is exposed, the sensitivity can be treated with the application of a bonding resin. A local anesthetic may be required for the procedure.
• Root canal: If the sensitive teeth are causing severe pain and other treatments have not been effective, the dentist might recommend that you have a root canal. A root canal is a procedure which is used to treat issues in the pulp of the tooth. Some patients consider a root canal to be an extreme solution, however, it is considered to be a highly effective technique in eliminating sensitivity in the teeth.
• Surgical gum graft: In the event your tooth root has lost gum tissue, a small portion of gum tissue can be removed from another location in your mouth and reconnected to the impacted area. This can help to protect the exposed roots and treat the tooth sensitivity.

In order to prevent the reoccurring issue of sensitive teeth, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice each day using a soft-bristled toothbrush, using a fluoride toothpaste, and flossing daily. Use gentle strokes with your toothbrush, opposed to vigorous or harsh brushing. You should also avoid using an abrasive or harsh toothpaste. If you suffer from teeth grinding, follow up with your dentist regarding a mouth guard to protect your teeth. Teeth grinding can result in tooth fractures and also cause increased sensitivity.

You may also want to avoid consuming acidic foods and beverages which can include carbonated drinks, citrus fruits and wine. Over time, the acid can remove small amounts of the tooth’s enamel. In the event you do consume acidic beverages, use a straw to avoid contact with your teeth. After you eat or drink acidic substances, swish your mouth with water to help balance the acid levels in your mouth and rinse your teeth.

In addition to the above, there are various at-home remedies used to treat oral pain and sensitive teeth. Most dentists, however, encourage patients to use a professional solution. While the at-home remedies may help alleviate the pain for a short time, they often fail to treat the underlying cause.

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