One of the most common dental problems that people face is tooth sensitivity. If you have sensitive teeth, it may be painful to eat and drink if the beverages or foods are hot, cold, or acidic. It may be uncomfortable to floss and brush your teeth, too.
Why does tooth sensitivity occur?
Tooth sensitivity is the result of thinning tooth enamel that exposes the porous dentin. Hot, cold, acidic, or sticky foods can easily pass through these tubules and “sting” the nerves inside the tooth. Another way teeth become sensitive is because of gum recession when the tissues have pulled far enough away from the teeth to expose the tooth roots. Thankfully, there are multiple ways you can ease your tooth sensitivity or even repair your smile to eliminate the discomfort altogether!
Treatments for Sensitive Teeth
- Fluoride Varnish. Fluoride treatment applied to the surface of the teeth helps to strengthen the tooth enamel by covering the exposed dentin. This can greatly reduce the lingering sensitivity or sharp tooth pain characteristic of thinning enamel.
- Gum Grafting. When sensitive teeth are a result of gum recession, gum grafting treatment can restore health and comfort to your smile. This surgery involves taking tissue grafts from other parts of the mouth or a donor source and placing them over the exposed tooth roots.
- Root Canal. If your tooth sensitivity is a result of infection or decay within your tooth, a root canal is your best choice. Root canal therapy is a comfortable process where your dentist removes the infected pulp and tissues from inside your tooth.
- At-Home Remedies. Special anti-sensitivity toothpaste and mouthwashes can help strengthen enamel if professional treatment isn’t needed. You may also want to avoid acidic or sticky foods that can erode the enamel.
Schedule your appointment
Don’t wait to treat your sensitive teeth! Schedule a consultation in our Dental Office in Thousand Oaks, CA with your local implant dentist today.