About 1 in 8 adults experience tooth sensitivity at some point. Dentist Robina It can be annoying, but there are a few things you can do to alleviate it.
The first thing to do is schedule an appointment with your dentist so they can diagnose the cause of the sensitivity and recommend treatment. They will also check for other issues like cavities, gum disease or a cracked tooth that could be contributing to the pain.
Teeth sensitivity is usually caused by the underlying layer of your teeth called dentin being exposed. This can happen due to tooth decay, root exposure, worn enamel, or gum recession (when the gum tissue pulls away from your teeth, exposing the roots).
It’s important to note that sensitivity can be short-lived or chronic. The latter can occur as a result of trauma or long-term minor damage to the teeth. It can also be triggered by dental treatments, like bleaching or crowns, which can wear away the enamel and expose the dentin below it.
Your dentist can treat sensitive teeth by applying coatings and varnishes to the affected tooth. Fluoride varnishes, for instance, help to protect the exposed dentin and reduce sensitivity.
Some patients who have sensitivity because of damaged teeth may benefit from dental bonding or dental fillings to cover the damaged teeth and prevent the sensitivity from recurring. Some people may not need these procedures, though.
Another option is to have a surgical gum graft performed on the area with sensitive teeth. A dentist will harvest a small piece of gum tissue from another part of your mouth and attach it to the tooth root that has lost the protective gum tissue, effectively reducing sensitivity.
There are a variety of other treatments for sensitive teeth, including oral rinses and toothpastes that contain abrasive or whitening agents. If you don’t find relief with these options, talk to your dentist about other options.
Avoiding acidic foods and drinks can also help you to decrease sensitivity. Swap out sodas, coffee, fruit juices, pickles, and other acidic food and drink for healthy alternatives like fruits and vegetables with high fiber content, cheese, milk, and plain yogurt.
Brushing your teeth properly with a soft-bristled toothbrush can also help relieve tooth sensitivity. Be sure to brush at least twice a day. You can also use a toothpaste that is formulated specifically for sensitive teeth, which may help to reduce the discomfort.
Visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings can also be effective in decreasing sensitivity. A professional dental cleaning removes food particles, plaque and bacteria that can increase sensitivity.
A dentist can also treat sensitivity that has developed after getting a filling or other dental procedure by applying an anti-inflammatory. An anti-inflammatory will relieve any swelling or inflammation in the nerve of your tooth.
When the pain or sensitivity doesn’t go away, your dentist will likely suggest a root canal. This is the best way to eliminate severe pain from sensitive teeth.