Sensitive Teeth:
Tooth sensitivity is tooth discomfort in one or more teeth that is triggered by hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods and drinks, or even by breathing cold air. The pain can be sharp and sudden.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
Sensitive teeth occur when the underlying layer of your teeth -- the dentin -- becomes exposed as a result of receding gum tissue (the protective blanket that covers the tooth roots). The roots, which are not covered by hard enamel, contain thousands of tiny tubules leading to the tooth's nerve center (the pulp). These dentinal tubules (or channels) allow the stimuli -- for example, the hot, cold, or sweet food -- to reach the nerve in your tooth, which results in the pain you feel.
There are many factors that may lead to sensitive teeth, including.
What Can I Do to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity?
Some steps you can take to prevent tooth sensitivity include:
What treatments can the dentist offer?
During an examination the dentist will talk to you about your symptoms. Dr O`Neill will look at your teeth to find out what is causing the sensitivity and to find the best way of treating it. She may treat the affected teeth with special de-sensitising products to help relieve the symptoms. Fluoride gels, rinses or varnishes can be applied to sensitive teeth. These can be painted onto the teeth at regular appointments one or two weeks apart, to build up some protection. Sensitivity can take some time to settle, and you may need to have several appointments. If this still does not help, Dr O`Neill may seal or fill around the neck of the tooth, where the tooth and gum meet, to cover exposed dentine. In very serious cases it may be necessary to root-fill the tooth.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
Sensitive teeth occur when the underlying layer of your teeth -- the dentin -- becomes exposed as a result of receding gum tissue (the protective blanket that covers the tooth roots). The roots, which are not covered by hard enamel, contain thousands of tiny tubules leading to the tooth's nerve center (the pulp). These dentinal tubules (or channels) allow the stimuli -- for example, the hot, cold, or sweet food -- to reach the nerve in your tooth, which results in the pain you feel.
There are many factors that may lead to sensitive teeth, including.
- Brushing too hard. Over time, brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel and cause the dentin to be exposed.
- Tooth decay near the gum line.
- Recession of the gums. As gums move away from a tooth due to conditions such as gum disease, the root surface becomes exposed
- Cracked teeth. Chipped or broken teeth or fillings.
- Teeth Grinding. Grinding or clenching your teeth may wear down the enamel and expose underlying dentin.
- Acidic foods and drinks. Frequent consumption of food and drinks with a high acid content can cause enamel erosion.These can include frequent consumption of fruit juices, and fizzy drinks.
What Can I Do to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity?
Some steps you can take to prevent tooth sensitivity include:
- Good Tooth Brushing: Use proper brushing and flossing techniques to thoroughly clean all parts of your teeth and mouth. We will advise you on this.
- Use a soft to medium bristled toothbrush and brush gently and carefully around the gum line. Try to avoid brushing your
teeth from side to side.
- Use desensitizing toothpaste. There are several brands of toothpaste available for sensitive teeth. With regular use you should notice a decrease in sensitivity. You may need to try several different brands to find the product that works best for you. Another tip is apply a thin layer of the toothpaste on the exposed tooth with your finger. We will advise you on which type of toothpaste would be best for you.
- Don’t brush your teeth after consumption of acidic foods and drinks as this can brush the acid into the tooth enamel. Use a fluoride mouthwash instead. We will advise you on a suitable mouthwash.
- Watch what you eat. Frequent consumption of highly acid foods can gradually dissolve tooth enamel and lead to dentine exposure. They may also aggravate the sensitivity and start the pain reaction.
- Avoid teeth grinding. If you grind or clench your teeth, talk to us about the possibility of having a mouth guard made to wear at night.
- Have regular dental check-up. If you have sensitive teeth, talk to us at Dentist Rathmines we will be happy to advise you .
What treatments can the dentist offer?
During an examination the dentist will talk to you about your symptoms. Dr O`Neill will look at your teeth to find out what is causing the sensitivity and to find the best way of treating it. She may treat the affected teeth with special de-sensitising products to help relieve the symptoms. Fluoride gels, rinses or varnishes can be applied to sensitive teeth. These can be painted onto the teeth at regular appointments one or two weeks apart, to build up some protection. Sensitivity can take some time to settle, and you may need to have several appointments. If this still does not help, Dr O`Neill may seal or fill around the neck of the tooth, where the tooth and gum meet, to cover exposed dentine. In very serious cases it may be necessary to root-fill the tooth.