Sensitive teeth can be caused by a wide range of dental health issues and it can simply be something that is genetic for you. When you have hypersensitivity everything from toothbrushing to a hot and cold foods can send a shockwave of pain.
At Friendly Dentistry in Greensboro, NC, we can help manage your sensitive teeth.
The Dental Health Problems That Cause Sensitive Teeth
There are a range of dental health issues that can cause sensitivity, but, if the problem is dental health related, it will end when the cause is repaired. Some dental health issues that can cause hypersensitivity include:
- Gum disease
- Gum recession
- Cracked tooth
- Tooth grinding
- Microscopic cracks in the tooth enamel
- Enamel erosion (acid erosion)
There is a difference between sensitivity related to oral health problems and sensitivity when there are not any health problems present. For example a tooth that needs a root canal will cause a toothache, but a perfectly healthy tooth may ache for a couple of seconds when exposed to cold air.
In other words, true hypersensitivity, does NOT have a medical cause. In cases where there is a degraded filling, tooth decay, gum disease, grinding your teeth can all cause tooth sensitivity but all those things can be solved, and you will be out of pain.
True Teeth Sensitivity
True tooth sensitivity occurs when there is no medical cause. This type of pain is described as a sharp pain that lasts a few seconds or for as long as the tooth comes in contact with the stimulus (hot and cold foods and beverages for example).
Your teeth will become sensitive because of fluid moving around in the dentin (the tissues under the hard enamel) which then results in your nerves being irritated. Gum recession due to aging or gum disease can expose the tubules and nerve endings, to the elements which can also cause hypersensitivity.
Thin enamel (which can be genetic) can also be the culprit. What can you do about sensitive teeth? First you need to make an appointment with the dentist to ensure that you are not dealing with cavities, gingivitis or other dental problems.
Your dentist may recommend that you have a fluoride varnish applied to your teeth. There is evidence that fluoridated tooth varnish can help to rebuild the enamel on your teeth. If teeth grinding is suspected your dentist will outfit you with a mouth guard.
Dealing with Tooth Sensitivity At Home
There are a few things that you can do at home to help reduce the pain of sensitive teeth. Good oral hygiene is always important. Oral care products made for tooth sensitivity can help. Desensitizing toothpastes, mouthwashes with fluoride and other oral health care products can help.
You may have to change your diet. Acidic foods and drinks can add to the problem. Acidic foods (sour foods) can wear down your enamel. The same is true for beverages that are highly acidic (citrus juice, coffee). Sugary foods should be avoided especially if your sensitivity comes from worn away enamel. Combining a tooth healthy diet with the right products while you continue to brush and floss can help to reduce the sensitivity.
Avoid brushing your teeth too vigorously. Use a soft bristled toothbrush. When you brush your teeth do not over scrub to help slow tooth erosion. A good quality fluoride toothpaste should be used that is also toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Continue to brush twice daily along with flossing you want to make sure you have healthy teeth.
Your pearly whites do not have to be painful, your dental professional can help you to make the changes that you need to make to enjoy good oral health without the pain.
When Should You Seek Dental Treatment For Sensitive Teeth
If your sensitive teeth problem worsens or you experience tooth pain in one tooth more than the others, you should make an appointment to see the dentist and Friendly Dentistry. If your gums are inflamed with sensitivity, make an appointment, if the pain gets to the point where brushing teeth is too uncomfortable, make an appointment.
If you want to learn more about sensitive teeth and what you can do to reduce the sensitivity make an appointment at Friendly Dentistry in Greensboro NC.