Tooth Sensitivity: What It Is and How to Treat It
Tooth sensitivity is no laughing matter. In fact, those sharp and sudden pains can make even the toughest person groan in agony. All it takes is one sip of hot coffee or a cold beverage to ignite the pain, make you wince and place your hand over your mouth. It can even hurt to brush or floss your teeth every morning and night. If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, ignoring the pain won’t make the problem go away. If you are experiencing tooth pain, please call our Eugene Dentist office to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
A durable layer of enamel protects healthy teeth above the gum line. Beneath the gum line, an extra layer, known as cementum, protects the roots. Dentin, a soft layer with tubes that lead to the nerve center of your tooth, sits beneath the enamel and the cementum layers. When your gums pull back and expose the dentin, anything that comes into contact with your teeth will result in pain.
Some possible reasons why you might develop sensitive teeth include:
- Cavities
- Gum disease
- Exposed roots
- Worn fillings and tooth enamel
- Wear and tear from bad brushing habits
- Chipped or damaged teeth
- Age
Consuming liquids and foods that are high in acidity, such as citrus fruits, can slowly wear down your tooth enamel. If your gums have receded, it could indicate gingivitis or another gum disease. As your dentin becomes more exposed, it could lead to hypersensitivity and worsened pain over time.
How Do You Treat Sensitive Teeth? Call our Eugene Dentist office now to schedule an appointment!
Depending on the severity, you can treat and control sensitive teeth with a few lifestyle changes and talking with your dentist.
- Use a desensitizing toothpaste with fluoride, and apply a thin layer over exposed roots each night before you go to sleep.
- Learn how to brush your teeth correctly to minimize unnecessary wear and tear. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush may also help.
- Floss after every meal to remove the food from around your gum line and to prevent it from causing tooth decay.
- Talk to your dentist about a crown, an inlay or a bonding for your sensitive teeth. These dental procedures can help correct flaws that lead to sensitivity.
- For persistent and severe pain, a surgical gum graft or a root canal may help and eliminate the problem for good.
With proper oral hygiene, you can treat and prevent tooth sensitivity. If the pain lingers no matter what you do, talk with a dental professional. Your Eugene dentist can help answer your questions, create an effective dental plan and reduce your pain and discomfort through corrective procedures.
Call our Eugene Dentist office now to schedule an appointment.