Have you found yourself letting your foods cool to room temperature because they hurt your teeth? Maybe you can no longer enjoy a bowl of ice cream because the pain of the cold has become too unbearable? Pain due to temperature changes in a sign of tooth sensitivity. In addition, you may also experience discomfort when eating sweets or placing pressure on a tooth. You can help to reduce the irritation with the help of your dentist.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
“Sensitivity occurs when the microscopic tubes in the dentin layer, which is right under the enamel, become exposed as a result of receding gums or the wearing away of enamel,” says Carolyn Taggart-Burns, a professor of dentistry at Creighton University, in Omaha. “The tubes lead to the innermost layer of the tooth, where the nerves are located”
The enamel can weaken due to several reasons, such as frequent exposure to acidic foods and drinks, brushing too hard, or using a hard-bristled toothbrush. In some cases, it can be due to gum disease, which is an infection in the gum tissue. For some, the issue may be only temporary due to recent dental work. After healing, the problem should subside.
However, if dental work is not the problem, your dentist can stop the discomfort by finding the underlying cause of the issue at your preventive appointment.
Treatment for Tooth Sensitivity
If weakened enamel is the cause of the issue, unfortunately, there is no way to promote new growth of the hard-outer layer. However, using a toothpaste that is specially formulated for sensitive teeth should help to ease the problem in about two weeks.
There are also over-the-counter mouthrinses that may help provide you with relief. Your dentist may recommend applying a special seal to the areas of thin enamel to help reduce your discomfort. This will also help to protect the weakened areas from developing tooth decay.
When sensitivity is due to gum disease, the infection will need to be treated. You will need a proactive treatment plan to restore your gum health while making changes to your oral hygiene to prevent the condition from reoccurring. In addition, you can ask your dentist for a gum grafting procedure to help cover the exposed tooth roots.
To further help stop the discomfort, Susan Karabin, president of the American Academy of Periodontology and an associate clinical professor at Columbia University, suggests that you brush gently while avoiding acidic foods and drinks, like citrus fruits, sodas, and wine.
Stop Tooth Sensitivity Today
If tooth sensitivity has decreased your quality of life, you do not have to live with the discomfort. Your dentist can help to provide the relief you need so you can get back to enjoying your favorite foods.
About Dr. Willy M. Kassem
Dr. Willy M. Kassem received his dental degree from Temple University in 2007. After continuing his knowledge at Kings County Hospital, he began to provide comprehensive dental services to promote his patient’s oral health and quality of life. If you are living with tooth sensitivity, contact iSmile Dental Arts today to get the relief you need.
