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- info@appledaydental.ca
- 3041 Argentia Road Mississauga, ON, L5N 8P7
You have probably experienced tooth sensitivity at some point, as it is a common problem that affects people of all ages.
At Appleday Dental Care, we will address the main causes of tooth sensitivity, professional dental treatments to end this problem, and our professionals will teach you how to prevent it in the long term so that you never have to deal with this annoying problem again.
* This article is not intended to replace a professional evaluation and should be taken as a general informational article only.
If you experience sharp pain when eating hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods, you probably have tooth sensitivity.
Tooth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, occurs when the inner layer of the tooth is exposed due to tooth enamel wear or gum recession. Dentin contains microscopic tubules that connect to the tooth’s nerve. When these tubules are activated by temperature changes or certain foods, they send pain signals to the nerve.
This condition can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and can affect one or more teeth at a time.
Understanding what to do about tooth sensitivity can help you reduce discomfort, protect your enamel, and improve your oral health.
Before knowing what to do about tooth sensitivity, it is important to understand why it occurs, so that we can also prevent it in the long term. Some of the most common causes include:
Frequent consumption of acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits, soft drinks, coffee, and wine, can wear down tooth enamel, exposing the dentin and causing sensitivity.
When gums recede, the roots of the teeth are exposed, which are not protected by enamel. A common cause of this gum problem is poor brushing technique, but it can also occur due to periodontal disease or aging.
Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing with too much pressure can damage enamel and irritate the gums, causing sensitivity.
Grinding or clenching your teeth can cause enamel wear, cracks in the teeth, and eventually increased sensitivity when eating certain foods and drinks.
Cavities, cracked teeth, worn fillings, or periodontal disease can cause tooth sensitivity and require specialized professional treatment.
Mild to moderate sensitivity can often be relieved with simple changes to your oral care routine and regular visits to the dentist.
One of the most effective solutions for sensitive teeth is toothpaste for sensitive teeth. These formulas contain ingredients such as potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride that help block pain signals and strengthen enamel. For best results, use it for an extended period of time.
A soft-bristled toothbrush is gentler on tooth enamel and gums. When brushing, it is important to use light pressure and circular motions to avoid damaging both your teeth and gums.
It’s not about eliminating, but limiting your consumption of soft drinks, citrus fruits, vinegar, and sports drinks, as they wreak havoc on your oral health in the long run. If you consume acidic foods, rinse your mouth with water afterward and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.
This point could be the key to avoiding most oral health problems. Try to floss daily and maintain regular brushing habits to prevent plaque buildup, cavities, and periodontal disease, which can aggravate sensitivity.
The positive side of tooth sensitivity is that, in most cases, it is a problem that can be solved. It should be noted that, as tooth sensitivity is multifactorial, there is more than one dental treatment available, and the choice of which one to carry out should be made by your trusted dentist. At Appleday Dental Care, after the initial consultation, our professionals will choose the best treatment for your case.
Some possible options are:
Fluoride varnishes or gels strengthen enamel and reduce pain by sealing exposed dentin. These treatments are quick and effective.
Adhesive resins or sealants can be applied to exposed root surfaces to protect sensitive areas and prevent further irritation.
In cases of severe gum recession, a gum graft can cover exposed roots, restore gum tissue, and significantly reduce sensitivity.
If cavities or damaged fillings are causing sensitivity, repairing them can eliminate pain and prevent future cavities.
In extreme cases, where sensitivity is caused by nerve damage or infection, root canal treatment may be necessary to permanently relieve the pain.
At Appleday Dental Care, we will be happy to assess your case and find a solution to your annoying tooth sensitivity. Our professional dentists in Mississauga will guide you in developing habits to prevent the problem from recurring. Contact us to book your appointment!
