Tooth Sensitivity – Altamonte Springs, FL
How to Manage Discomfort at the Source
It’s not outside the realm of possibility that you experience tooth sensitivity. For example, you may notice after eating or drinking something very hot, cold, sugary, or acidic that you notice an uncomfortable, sharp twinge in your mouth. You may start to ask yourself questions afterwards, unsure of what is causing this discomfort in the first place. If you don’t know what to do or wonder if there is a solution available to treat your tooth sensitivity, give Distinctive Dentistry on Maitland a call today and they’ll do everything they can to answer your questions!
What Exactly is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is a phenomenon that occurs in your teeth when you consume certain foods and drinks. For example, if you eat a bowl of ice cream or drink a cup of hot tea, you’re more likely to experience mild discomfort. It is true that enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, but that does not mean it is indestructible. Under the thick outer layer of enamel lies another layer known as dentin. This layer contains many tubules that connect to your tooth’s nerve ending as well as the pulp. As the dentin becomes exposed over time, the sensitivity goes from bad to worse and eventually causes a toothache if treatment is not provided.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
Teeth can become sensitive in a variety of ways, including the following:
- Gum recession, which exposes more of the vulnerable tooth roots
- Tooth decay that has reached past the dentin layer of teeth
- Worn down enamel, either as a result of overbrushing, having an uneven bite, or constantly grinding and clenching your teeth together
- Cracks or fissures in teeth as a result of poor oral hygiene or injury
The moment you notice sensitive teeth, let one of our dentists know. This way, we’ll know to keep a special eye on that tooth during your exam and cleaning. We can also provide your teeth with the added reinforcement it needs and reduce any future sensitivity. Additionally, if you notice any discomfort or pain that becomes unbearable, don’t wait for your routine checkup.
How Can You Treat Tooth Sensitivity?
One of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity is a cavity. To treat a cavity, we remove any and all decay that’s present, then place a composite resin dental filling or a dental crown to fill or cover the damaged tooth. In other instances, we may apply fluoride directly to the tooth as part of your biannual cleaning. This fluoride works to keep enamel strong and protected in between professional visits. You may also want to opt for oral care products that are geared towards sensitive teeth specifically. We’ll also go over your daily oral hygiene habits to ensure you’re doing everything possible to reduce tooth sensitivity.