Everyone’s teeth hurt when they bite into hot or cold foods, right? If your teeth hurt, you should definitely avoid things like coffee and ice cream – right? These are just a few of the myths that people who have sensitive teeth may have come to believe. But they are absolutely incorrect, and what is more, they can affect your quality of life needlessly.
Why Is Sensitivity Such a Problem?
There are many reasons that people develop sensitive teeth over time. This can become a problem even if your childhood teeth were not sensitive at all. Tooth decay, worn fillings and tooth enamel and gum disease can lead to increasingly sensitive teeth over time. Accidents, such as fractured teeth, can cause your teeth to suddenly develop sensitivity to hot and cold food and drink. Some people are so sensitive that they even wince from brushing!
So what happens to the teeth to cause such sensitivity? The layer of enamel that protects the exposed parts of your teeth also protects the tooth root. Next to the root of your teeth is a layer of protection called dentin, which is less dense and full of hollow canals. When enamel is worn away, heat, cold, acidic or sticky foods can get into the nerves by the tooth root. Receding gums can create the same problem. The result? Hypersensitivity.
Is There A Good Treatment Method?
Fortunately, hypersensitivity can be easily treated. In terms of prevention, proper oral hygiene can go a long way toward preventing the problem in the first place. But if sensitivity already exists, there are lots of options. Desensitizing toothpastes actually do work, because they block transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve, though it make take several uses to start seeing the effects. Sometimes, though, a stronger solution is needed. Your dentist can apply an oral fluoride gel to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce sensation. Sometimes crowns, bonding or surgical gum grafts (often needed to solve other dental issues as well) can also help reduce sensitivity.
In any case, don’t simply suffer through life with sensitive teeth. If left untreated, though, sensitive teeth can turn into more than a pain. In some cases, it can also lead to tooth loss. Sensitive teeth can cause gums to swell, which can continue to irritate the tooth line even further. Why not consult your dentist about ways to treat your sensitive teeth?
Call today to schedule your dental appointment at Cedar Park Premier Dentistry! (512) 434-0560
