Does eating cold or hot food cause pain or discomfort? Then you may need to have a talk with your dentist about sensitive teeth.
Hot or Cold Food Can Trigger Sensitivity in Teeth
You may have sensitive teeth due to various factors. Once the root cause is found, an appropriate solution follows.
Scroll through this page to know more about sensitive teeth.
About Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive teeth can be a challenging condition to treat.
The defining feature of sensitive teeth is an acute, transient discomfort from an exposed dentin area. [1]
This can be caused by various factors. Let’s have a look at those reasons in the following section.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
Sensitive teeth can be a result of many factors. Some of the most common causes can be
- Worn tooth enamel due to brushing aggressively or using a hard bristled toothbrush.
- Tooth erosion caused by highly acidic food and beverages.
- Exposed dentin of your tooth due to tooth decay, worn out fillings, or broken teeth.
- Exposed root surface due to receding gums.
- Teeth grinding at night.
Damaged Teeth
- Post dental treatment sensitivity, however it is temporary in nature.
Source: Colgate [2]
Can Sensitive Teeth Be Treated?
Depending on your situation, your dentist may suggest any of the following treatments.
Desensitising Toothpaste
It can help block the pain caused by sensitive teeth. Many over-the-counter products are available in local pharmacies.
Your dentist may be able to advise something according to the amount of discomfort you’re experiencing.
Oral-B Sensitivity & Gum Calm Original Toothpaste
$15.10
Crest Pro-Health Sensitive & Enamel Shield Toothpaste
$15.70
Colgate® Sensitive Prevent & Repair™ Toothpaste
$12.33
Fluoride Gel
Your dentist may apply fluoride gel over the affected area. This will help in reducing pain and discomfort.
A prescription fluoride may also be provided for later use.
Fillings
Exposed roots or dentin can be treated with tooth filling.
Gum Grafting
If you’ve lost gum tissue, it can be replaced by taking it from elsewhere in your mouth.
Root Canal Treatment
If the pain you’re experiencing is severe, then root canal may be an appropriate solution. This procedure will treat your tooth’s soft core.
Source: Mayo Clinic [3]
How To Prevent Sensitive Teeth?
Sensitivity in teeth can be prevented by following appropriate dental hygiene routines.
Let’s have a look at what you can do to keep this dental discomfort at bay.
- Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to help prevent loss of gums.
- Use a sensitivity toothpaste to remove plaque build-up.
- Brush and floss twice a day.
- Clean your mouth thoroughly, along the gumline and between teeth.
- Limit the intake of acidic foods and drinks.
Good Oral Hygiene
Source: OralB [4]
Final Thoughts
We at Dentavacation are committed to ensure you maintain great oral hygiene.
If you want affordable yet quality dental treatments, feel free to contact us.
