IF THERE’S ONE THING we can all agree on, it’s that nobody likes sensitive teeth! Tooth sensitivity can cause discomfort during daily tasks such as brushing, flossing, eating, drinking, and even breathing in a cold gush of air! Many different things can cause a tooth to become sensitive.
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, there are measures you can take to relieve pain and treat discomfort.
Start By Visiting Your Dentist or Periodontist If you are concerned about sensitive teeth, seek a dental professional’s help first. Tooth sensitivity, while common, can also be a sign of something more serious. Periodontal disease is a gum infection that damages the hard and soft tissue that holds the tooth in the mouth. In serious cases of periodontal disease the tooth becomes mobile and could result in loss of that tooth. Periodontal disease can cause gums to recede and may eventually lead to bone loss. Receding gums are one thing that could contribute to sensitive teeth. Gum recession can be caused by many different variables, like clenching and grinding, orthodontic treatment, and hormonal changes just to name a few. Your dentist can help identify what the underlying cause of your sensitivity is and prescribe the best treatment option for you and your smile! After an evaluation, your dentist might recommend:
- Desensitizing toothpaste: This type of toothpaste is specially formulated to soothe the nerve endings in the tooth and reduce pain.
- Limiting acidic foods and drinks: Carbonated beverages, citrus fruits, wine, tomatoes, yogurt, etc. are acidic and, when consumed frequently, can remove small amounts of tooth enamel over time. Drink acidic liquids with straws to avoid contact with teeth.
- Pinhole Surgical Technique: The Pinhole Technique was designed to be a minimally-invasive option for treating gum recession. It is a new procedure that can often replace traditional gum grafting surgery. You can find out more information about the Pinhole Surgical Technique on our website or by clicking here: https://www.drnemeth.com/pinhole-surgical-technique-2/
A Good Oral Hygiene Routine Can Help You Avoid Sensitivity Proper brushing and flossing can prevent conditions such as gum disease which is known to cause gum recession. If the gums have receded, part of the tooth root is exposed, leading to sensitivity. If the receding gums and exposed root are not addressed in a timely manner tooth decay may occur. Over-brushing or brushing too aggressively can also lead to receding gums and even enamel erosion—both of which can cause sensitivity.
We Can Help With Tooth Sensitivity Although sensitivity is common, there are things we can do to help relieve and reduce the discomfort that it causes. Call us or come in today so we can help you achieve a pain-free smile!
To our wonderful patients, we appreciate you!
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.