What Can You Do For Sensitive Teeth?

Does a sip of hot coffee or the cold taste of ice cream make you cringe? Do you have a painful experience when brushing your teeth? If so, this could mean you may have sensitive teeth. There are several reasons why this could be happening, so let’s look into the causes.

Causes of Sensitive Teeth

–       Cavity

–       Fractured teeth

–       Worn fillings or worn tooth enamel

–       Gum disease

–       Exposed tooth root

Treatments for Sensitive Teeth

Although the pain from sensitive teeth may sometimes be intense, the good news is that sensitive teeth can be treated. The type of treatment will essentially depend on the cause of sensitivity. At Fairfield Dental Arts, we suggest one of a variety of treatments:

Desensitizing toothpaste: Using this kind of special toothpaste will help block the communication of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve. However, the desensitizing toothpaste may require quite a few applications before the sensitivity is reduced.

Fluoride gel: Toughens tooth enamel and reduces sensitivity sensations.

Crown or bonding: Used to correct a tooth decay (cavities).

Surgical gum graft: Protects the root and reduces sensitivity.

Root canal: This is the last resort if sensitivity is severe and persistent and other treatments are not reducing the painful sensation.

Mouthguard: Used to protect teeth if you grind.

Reduce Teeth Sensitivity By:

Brush, Brush, Brush: Proper oral hygiene is the key to preventing sensitive teeth pain. However, don’t brush too hard as this could take off more than just plaque, damaging your tooth enamel. The best way to brush your teeth to keep your enamel clean and strong is side-to-side brushing at the gum line using a soft-bristled brush.  

Avoiding Acidic Foods and Beverages: Foods and drinks that are high in sugar, such as soda and candy are damaging to tooth enamel. Instead, snack on foods that are high in fiber, such as yogurt, fruits, and vegetables. Choose healthy beverages over sugary ones – water, green or black tea. If you are a gum chewer, it’s wise to pick sugarless gum to reduce the chances of tooth decay. 

Don’t Clench: Teeth clenching wears away your enamel. However, if you are a teeth grinder we can fit you for a splint or a mouthguard.

Bleach Break: Take a break from blenching to reduce tooth sensitivity.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, contact us today so we can talk about what kind of treatment may be right for you.