Have you ever bitten into an ice cream bar and felt a sharp bolt of pain in your tooth? If so, then you are familiar with tooth sensitivity. This is a type of oral pain in which an external stimulus, such as food, touches an exposed nerve within a tooth, sending pain signals to the brain.
Though the pain is intermittent, resolving upon the removal of the stimulus, it can feel excruciating. Even if you think you can tolerate this discomfort, you should not ignore it. Tooth sensitivity might be a sign of a larger dental problem that will require intervention from a dentist.
Treatment for sensitive teeth may vary depending on the underlying cause of this symptom. Schedule a dental consultation right away to determine this cause and alleviate this oral pain. You can also find three ways to relieve tooth sensitivity when you read on.
Use Desensitizing Toothpaste
Tooth sensitivity pain occurs when an item stimulates a nerve exposed within the tooth. One way to relieve this type of tooth pain is to use a product that can block these nerves from transmitting the pain signals.
Desensitizing toothpaste can accomplish this because it contains an ingredient that targets these nerves and temporarily plugs holes that would reveal them. Then you can eat and drink without worrying about anything causing you pain.
Treat Tooth Decay
Tooth sensitivity might occur as a side effect of a type of dental damage called tooth decay. It forms when oral bacteria eat away at your dental structure, eroding healthy enamel and exposing underlying nerves. If decay creates a hole in your tooth, dentists refer to the issue as a cavity.
Cavities will require intervention from a dentist to treat. They will remove the decayed part of the tooth and restore its structure using a composite resin dental filling. The filling will cover any exposed nerves in the area, so it will stop sensitivity pain too.
Dental Crown Placement
A healthy dental patient has a strong outer shell over each tooth called enamel. This layer serves as a shield over nerves and the vulnerable interior of a tooth. Though durable, enamel might wear down or erode over time. If this happens, underlying nerves will become exposed, putting you in danger of sensitivity pain.
Enamel will not regenerate of its own accord, so you will need to talk to your dentist about ways to replace lost enamel. The most beneficial way to do this is with a dental crown.
This treatment involves placing a custom-made ceramic cap over the tooth’s surface and sealing it into place with dental cement. The crown will restore the damaged tooth and remain securely in place for fifteen years.
This ensures that you have long-lasting relief from tooth sensitivity among other restorative dental benefits. Find the best method of resolving your tooth pain by giving your dentist a call as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can stress or teeth grinding contribute to sensitivity?
Yes, stress often leads to teeth grinding or jaw clenching, particularly at night. This constant pressure wears down your enamel, exposing sensitive dentin beneath. Over time, teeth grinding can cause chronic sensitivity and discomfort. A custom night guard can help protect your teeth and reduce sensitivity.
How does gum recession relate to sensitive teeth?
Gum recession exposes tooth roots that aren’t protected by hard enamel, making them extremely sensitive to temperature and touch. The exposed root surface has tiny tubules that lead directly to the tooth’s nerve, causing sharp pain with hot, cold, or sweet stimuli. Aggressive brushing is a common cause of both recession and the resulting sensitivity. Desensitizing treatments and proper brushing technique can help manage the discomfort.
Are electric toothbrushes safe for people with sensitive teeth?
Yes, electric toothbrushes are often better for sensitive teeth because they provide consistent, gentle pressure without the aggressive scrubbing many people do with manual brushes. Many electric models have pressure sensors that alert you if you’re brushing too hard. Choose a soft-bristled head and use desensitizing toothpaste for best results. The gentle vibrating action can actually help desensitizing ingredients penetrate more effectively.
Is sensitivity a warning sign of an upcoming root canal or other major issue?
Sensitivity doesn’t always mean you’ll need a root canal, but it can indicate an underlying issue like decay, gum disease, or a cracked tooth. Persistent or increasing sensitivity, especially to heat or pressure, should be evaluated by your dentist. Early intervention may prevent a more serious issue like needing a root canal.
Can flossing too aggressively make teeth more sensitive?
Yes, flossing too aggressively or incorrectly can irritate your gums, leading to gum recession and exposing sensitive tooth roots. Always floss gently, sliding the floss carefully between your teeth without snapping it against your gums. Using proper flossing techniques can prevent sensitivity rather than cause it.
Should I change my diet to manage tooth sensitivity?
Yes, avoiding highly acidic, sugary, or extreme-temperature foods and drinks can help manage sensitivity. Acidic foods and beverages erode enamel, increasing sensitivity over time. Instead, eat a balanced diet with calcium-rich foods and drink plenty of water to neutralize acids and protect your teeth.
What are the most common causes of tooth sensitivity?
Common causes include enamel erosion from acidic foods or drinks, aggressive brushing, gum recession, teeth grinding, untreated cavities, worn dental fillings, and cracked teeth. Identifying the specific cause helps Dr. Morris recommend the most effective treatments and preventative measures to reduce sensitivity.