Fix Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity can be very uncomfortable and cause you to avoid some of your favorite foods and beverages. There are a number of possible causes for tooth sensitivity including worn tooth enamel, exposed root surface, or gum disease. A patient may also have a worn filling to a chipped or cracked tooth causing some sensitivity and discomfort. It is also not uncommon for a patient to experience temporary sensitivity on occasion, as long as it does not persist and subsides on its own, you probably have nothing to worry about.

Fortunately, there are many options available to help ease tooth sensitivity. Your dentist can help you find the underlying cause of your tooth sensitivity and advise you on which treatment will work best for you. Here are some treatments you may be recommended:

• Sensitivity toothpaste: Desensitizing toothpaste can help block the discomfort you feel with sensitivity after several applications. Toothpastes like Sensodyne and Pronamel can make a big difference when used regularly and are readily available over-the-counter. Ask your dentist if a desensitizing toothpaste might work for you.
• Fluoride treatments: Your dentist can provide a fluoride treatment in-office or make fluoride trays for you to use at home every day for a couple of weeks. Fluoride works to strengthen tooth enamel and helps reduce pain and sensitivity.
• Dental bonding for desensitizing: If exposed root surface is causing your sensitivity, your dentist can apply composite bonding over the area to seal them and protect them from further damage. Roots can become exposed when the gum tissue recedes and does not cover the area.
• Surgical gum graft: This is another great way to restore an area of gum recession and exposed root surface. A periodontist can use soft tissue from another area in your mouth and stitch it in place over the exposed root structure. Once the graft site heals, your sensitivity should subside.
• Root canal therapy: A root canal is a last ditch effort to stop sensitivity. If all other treatments fail, you may need a root canal. With this treatment, an endodontist will remove the soft tissue in the core of your tooth, the pulp. This pulp tissue houses blood vessels and nerves and when they are removed, you will not feel any pain in the area.

Once you and your dentist have solved your tooth sensitivity, you can keep it from recurring by brushing at least twice per day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride or sensitivity toothpaste. It is also very important to make sure you floss at least once per day to make sure you keep your gum tissue healthy and that you do not develop gum disease. You may also benefit from changing your diet a bit, taking care to either avoid or use a straw for carbonated or acidic beverages.

Teeth can become sensitive due to chips and cracks and if you clench or grind your teeth in your sleep, a night guard can help prevent damage to your teeth and gum tissue. Speak with your dentist to determine if any of these treatments will help your tooth sensitivity.

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