Feeling tenderness and swelling in a particular tooth and surrounding gums is widespread nowadays. An acute gum disease, crack, chip, or pulp infection can be the underlying reason for sensitive teeth. Many patients might wonder whether managing tooth sensitivity or preventing it entirely is possible. This blog covers what causes this dental discomfort and ways to relieve it.
Why Do Teeth Feel Sensitive At Times?
Hypersensitive teeth can arise due to various factors, impacting your daily activities like eating and drinking. Some common causes include the following:
- Brushing very aggressively or using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Recent dental procedures such as fillings or whitening treatments
- Gum recession that exposes tooth roots
- Excessive consumption of acidic foods and beverages
- Natural aging leads to wear and tear of teeth
- Plaque accumulation leading to enamel erosion
- Switching between hot and cold drinks and foods causes tenderness
- Teeth grinding or TMJ disorders affecting your jaw muscles and nerves
Routine checkups from your dentist are essential in determining the best approach to relieve and prevent this dentin hypersensitivity.
Treatment Options for Tooth Discomfort
Once you determine the underlying cause, managing dental discomfort is simple. The following are some typical options to reverse tooth tenderness:
Desensitizing Toothpaste: These are made specifically to reduce the discomfort that sensitive enamel causes.
Dental Sealants: Your dentist may use this protective coating to protect the affected area if discomfort is brought on by exposed dentin.
Treatments with Fluoride: This mineral strengthens tooth enamel and lessens discomfort from external factors.
Mouthguards for Nighttime Grinding: A tailored mouthguard can reduce pressure and shield enamel if grinding makes teeth sensitive.
Root Canal Therapy: This endodontic treatment may be required to treat chronic pain in cases of extensive tooth nerve injury.
Additionally, sensitive teeth can be treated by avoiding very acidic foods and brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
How Can Dentin Hypersensitivity Be Avoided?
Take the following precautions to keep your teeth strong and healthy:
- Keep Your Mouth Healthy: To avoid plaque accumulation, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss every day.
- Use Fluoride Products: This mineral helps to strengthen enamel. Include fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash in your daily regimen to safeguard your smile.
- Avoid Eating Acidic Foods: To prevent enamel erosion, limit your consumption of foods high in vinegar, soda, and citrus fruits.
- Do not Grind or Clench your Teeth: If you think you may be grinding your teeth, think about getting a night guard to protect your teeth.
- Address Dental Problems: Early treatment of periodontal disease, cavities, and fractures can stop the diseases that cause enamel discomfort from getting worse.
Ready to ensure optimal protection for your teeth? Contact Campbell Crossing Dentistry to consult with our caring dentist. We help patients alleviate pain and discomfort associated with oral sensitivity with routine dental care, root canals, crowns, and more. Book an appointment right now or visit our dental office!