How Can I Fix Tooth Sensitivity?

Sensitive teeth are typically the result of worn tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots. However, the discomfort can also be caused by other factors, including cavities, a cracked of chipped tooth, a worn filling, or gum disease. When you experience sensitivity, certain daily activities (like brushing your teeth, eating, and drinking) can cause a sharp but temporary pain in your teeth.

Solutions

There’s good news because sensitive teeth can be fixed through the following ways:

Desensitizing Toothpaste

After several applications of this specially designed toothpaste, the pain associated with sensitive teeth can be blocked. There are several products on the market available over-the-counter. You can always ask your dentist which one is best for you.

Fluoride

Your dentist may suggest applying fluoride to the sensitive areas of your teeth. This will not only reduce the pain but also strengthen your tooth enamel. He or she may also recommend the use of prescription fluoride to use at home, which is usually applied with a custom tray.

Desensitizing or Bonding

Exposed root surfaces can sometimes be treated by applying a bonding resin on them.

Surgical Gum Graft

If you have lost gum tissue around the root of your tooth, a small amount of tissue from elsewhere in your mouth may be attached to the affected site. This protects the exposed roots and reduces sensitivity.

Root Canal

If your sensitive teeth are causing you severe pain and the other treatment options mentioned above haven’t worked, your dentist may suggest that you get a root canal—a procedure used to treat problems in the tooth’s soft core (dental pulp). This is considered the most successful technique for eliminating tooth sensitivity.

Prevention

Of course, there are also ways to prevent tooth sensitivity from recurring or occurring in the first place. You should brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. When brushing, you should use gentle strokes and avoid using an abrasive toothpaste. And if you grind your teeth at night, you should ask your dentist for a mouth guard—as grinding can fracture teeth and cause sensitivity.

Moreover, you may also consider taking care when eating or drinking acidic foods, like citrus fruits, and drinks, like carbonated sodas and waters. Anything consumed that is high in acid can remove small amounts of tooth enamel over time. So, when you drink acidic liquids, you may want to use a straw to limit contact with your teeth. And after, you’ll want to drink plenty of water to balance the acid levels in your mouth.

Reach Out To Your Dentist if You Have Questions About Tooth Sensitivity

The pain associated with tooth sensitivity—albeit temporary—can affect you multiple times throughout the day as you brush, eat, and drink. But you can prevent that from happening through a healthy dental hygiene routine and limiting the acidic foods and drinks that you consume. However, if it does occur, you can use special toothpaste and fluoride or have a root canal, bonding, or a special gum graft. If you have more questions about tooth sensitivity, be sure to let our dentist know during your next visit.