Fix Sensitive Teeth

Causes Of and Treatments For Sensitive Teeth

If you have sensitive teeth you know that sharp intermittent pain can occur. Certain daily activities, such as eating and drinking, or brushing can bring on this pain. Usually, sensitive teeth are the result of exposed tooth roots or worn tooth enamel. Though sometimes gum disease, a worn filling, a chipped or cracked tooth, can cause the tooth discomfort as well.

If you are experiencing discomfort from sensitive teeth consult with your dentist as soon as possible. She or he can help determine the underlying cause of any pain in the teeth or gums. Possible recommendations might include use of desensitizing toothpaste or fluoride treatment. While other possible treatment suggestions could include bonding, surgical gum graft, or a root canal.

Desensitizing toothpaste can often help block the pain that accompanies sensitive teeth. It usually takes several applications to feel this, but there are several products you can get over-the- counter.

Fluoride, a common treatment for various dental issues, can be applied specifically to any sensitive teeth areas. Fluoride can strengthen the enamel of the teeth and sometimes reduces pain. Sometimes a prescription fluoride might be recommended which is most often applied by using a custom tray.

Applying bonding resin to sensitive root surfaces is a treatment used if there are root surfaces that have become exposed. Often for this treatment a local anesthetic is used.

Sometimes, a surgical gum graft is needed if the root of a tooth has lost gum tissue. In this procedure a small piece of gum tissue (taken from another area of your mouth) is attached to the specific area affected to protect the root that has been exposed, and to reduce the sensitivity.

And if the sensitive teeth are causing significant pain after other treatments have been tried, a dentist might suggest a root canal. A root canal is used to treat the dental pulp in the tooth's soft core. Though a more significant treatment, it is a highly successful treatment for effectively relieving tooth sensitivity.

For the prevention of recurrence of sensitive teeth it is highly recommended that you brush your teeth at least twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush, in conjunction with using a fluoride toothpaste, and flossing daily as well. For effective brushing gentle strokes (as opposed to more rigorous ones) are suggested. Avoid harsh scrubbing motions and do not use abrasive toothpaste. If you are someone who tends to grind your teeth, a mouth guard can also be helpful since grinding the teeth can cause teeth to fracture which can cause sensitivity. Also worth considering is reducing your intake of acidic food and drink (for example carbonated beverages, wine and citrus fruit) which can slowly wear away small bits of tooth enamel. If you do drink any acidic liquids a straw is recommended to lessen contact with your teeth. And always drink water to balance the acidity in your mouth and to increase proper hydration, which is important for good overall oral health.

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