Tooth sensitivity can seriously impact your everyday experience. You might avoid your favorite foods or have difficulty biting and chewing. Understanding what’s behind tooth sensitivity and finding the right gentle dentistry in Webster will help you overcome this widespread oral health issue.
Potential Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Enamel erosion is a significant contributor to tooth sensitivity.[1] Although enamel protects the sensitive inner layers of teeth, it can wear down, exposing dentin. Additionally, brushing your teeth too hard or consuming acidic food and drinks can lead to tooth sensitivity due to enamel erosion.
Cavities can also lead to your teeth being highly sensitive. Around 25% of U.S. adults have untreated cavities.[2] Tooth decay leads to pits forming, which can then shelter bacteria. They wear away your teeth in one spot and continue to push deeper. The thin enamel in that area leads to exposed dentin, which is very sensitive to hot or cold.
Receding gums that expose tooth roots may make teeth more sensitive. Gum tissue normally protects tooth roots from exposure, but gum disease causes that tissue to peel back. Additionally, enamel is much thinner at the tooth roots, providing less protection.
You might also experience tooth sensitivity after teeth whitening. The whitening agents used in both over-the-counter and professional products can sometimes increase sensitivity. If you’re concerned about sensitivity, talk to your dentist before trying teeth whitening.
Treatment Options for Sensitive Teeth
If you’re facing tooth sensitivity, your dentist can provide various treatment options to help strengthen tooth enamel and improve oral health. In-office fluoride treatments are a prime example.[3] This quick addition to your routine dental visit provides lasting protection for your smile.
Dental bonding is a treatment that can help resolve tooth sensitivity in some cases. If sensitivity is due to cavities, worn enamel, cracks, or chips, applying composite resin to protect the area through dental bonding will provide an effective solution.
For cases where gum recession is the issue, you may require more involved treatments, such as gum grafting.[3] This procedure transplants tissue from another area in your mouth to restore the affected gums. This will help deal with tooth sensitivity, prevent gum disease, and restore the appearance of your smile.
Patients who face tooth sensitivity due to severe tooth decay may require root canal therapy to achieve relief and save the tooth. This procedure removes the infected pulp tissue inside the tooth. The pulp tissue contains the nerves responsible for tooth sensitivity, so removing it stops sensitivity and pain.
Advice From Gentle Dentistry in Webster: How to Tackle Tooth Sensitivity at Home
A good oral hygiene routine at home is essential to prevent tooth sensitivity. Brush and floss twice daily. Additionally, use a fluoridated toothpaste that will remineralize and strengthen your enamel.
If you have persistent tooth sensitivity, consider using a desensitizing toothpaste. These kinds of toothpaste contain ingredients that reduce the sensation in your teeth, mitigating any excessive sensitivity. However, make sure to mention sensitivity to your dentist, as it can be an indicator of serious oral health issues.
Preventing enamel erosion in the first place goes a long way toward preventing sensitivity. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid wear, and don’t brush too aggressively. Stay away from abrasive toothpaste or whitening treatments if your teeth cannot tolerate them.
Certain foods and drinks should be avoided when dealing with tooth sensitivity. Acidic drinks such as coffee, tea, wine, and soda are prime examples. Sugary food and drinks are also causes for concern, as they provide a food source for bacteria in your mouth that are responsible for tooth decay.
Discover Gentle Dentistry in Webster, NY
Avoiding potential causes of tooth sensitivity and taking steps to safeguard your smile at home is a good idea. However, the right gentle dentistry in Webster is essential to maintaining comfort and health. Call 585-671-1650 or contact Empire Dental Care online to schedule an appointment and find a personalized solution for your sensitive teeth.
Sources:
[1] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/tooth-erosion
