If you’ve ever felt a sharp pain or discomfort when eating something hot, cold, sweet, or sour, you may be dealing with tooth sensitivity. This common dental issue can range from mild discomfort to more intense pain, making it difficult to enjoy your favorite foods or drinks. The good news is that tooth sensitivity is treatable, and there are steps you can take to prevent it from returning.
At Family Dental Care Tottenham, we’re here to help you understand the causes of tooth sensitivity and provide effective treatments to restore your comfort and protect your smile.
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the protective layer of enamel on your teeth wears down or when the gums recede, exposing the softer inner layer of the tooth called dentin. Dentin contains tiny tubules that lead to the nerve of the tooth. When exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods, these tubules allow sensations to reach the nerve, causing that familiar sharp pain.
Several factors can lead to the erosion of enamel or gum recession, including:
1. Brushing Too Hard
Brushing with too much force or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down your enamel over time and cause gum recession, exposing the sensitive roots of your teeth.
2. Gum Disease (Gingivitis or Periodontitis)
Inflammation of the gums, caused by gum disease, can lead to gum recession, exposing the tooth’s root and causing sensitivity.
3. Tooth Decay or Worn Fillings
Cavities and worn-down fillings can expose the sensitive inner layers of your teeth, leading to discomfort when eating or drinking.
4. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Grinding or clenching your teeth—especially at night—can wear down the enamel, leading to sensitivity.
5. Acidic Foods and Drinks
Regular consumption of acidic foods and drinks like citrus fruits, soda, and vinegar can erode your enamel and contribute to sensitivity.
6. Teeth Whitening Products
Some over-the-counter teeth whitening products contain harsh chemicals that can temporarily increase tooth sensitivity, especially if used excessively.
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, it’s important to visit your dentist to determine the underlying cause and find the best treatment for you. At Family Dental Care Tottenham, we offer several solutions to help reduce sensitivity and protect your teeth. Here are some common treatments:
1. Desensitizing Toothpaste
One of the easiest ways to manage tooth sensitivity is by switching to a desensitizing toothpaste. These toothpastes contain ingredients like potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride, which help block the tubules in the dentin, reducing sensitivity. Over time, regular use of desensitizing toothpaste can provide relief from discomfort.
2. Fluoride Treatments
In-office fluoride treatments can strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the transmission of sensations to the nerve. We may recommend applying fluoride gel, foam, or varnish directly to the sensitive areas during your dental visit to help protect your teeth.
3. Dental Bonding
If the sensitivity is caused by exposed tooth roots, we may recommend dental bonding. This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the exposed root surfaces, covering the sensitive areas and preventing further discomfort.
4. Gum Grafting
If gum recession is the cause of your sensitivity, a gum graft may be recommended. This procedure involves taking tissue from another part of your mouth and attaching it to the affected areas, helping to cover exposed roots and protect against sensitivity.
5. Night Guard for Teeth Grinding
If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a custom-fitted night guard can protect your teeth from further damage and reduce sensitivity caused by enamel wear.
6. Root Canal Therapy
In severe cases where sensitivity is caused by deep decay or nerve damage, root canal therapy may be necessary. This treatment removes the damaged or infected nerve, eliminating the source of pain and preserving the tooth.
Once your tooth sensitivity has been treated, it’s important to take steps to prevent it from returning. Here are some tips for maintaining healthy teeth and minimizing sensitivity:
1. Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush is gentle on your enamel and gums, reducing the risk of wear and gum recession. Be sure to brush using gentle, circular motions instead of scrubbing back and forth.
2. Switch to Desensitizing Toothpaste
If you have a history of tooth sensitivity, using a desensitizing toothpaste as part of your daily routine can help protect your teeth and reduce discomfort.
3. Avoid Acidic Foods and Drinks
Limit your consumption of acidic foods and drinks, such as soda, citrus fruits, and vinegar, which can erode enamel. If you do consume something acidic, rinse your mouth with water afterward to neutralize the acids.
4. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. Maintaining good oral hygiene helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay, two major contributors to sensitivity.
5. Wear a Mouthguard
If you grind or clench your teeth, consider wearing a mouthguard at night to protect your enamel from damage and prevent sensitivity.
6. Limit Teeth Whitening Treatments
While professional teeth whitening treatments are generally safe, overusing at-home whitening products can increase sensitivity. Be sure to follow your dentist’s recommendations and avoid excessive whitening.
At Family Dental Care Tottenham, we’re committed to helping our patients enjoy comfortable, pain-free smiles. If you’re dealing with tooth sensitivity, our experienced dental team will work with you to determine the cause and create a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs. We offer a range of solutions, from desensitizing treatments to more advanced procedures, ensuring you get the care that’s right for you.
Don’t let tooth sensitivity keep you from enjoying your favorite foods and drinks. If you’re experiencing discomfort, call Family Dental Care Tottenham at (705) 230-6221 or book an appointment online. Our compassionate team is here to help you find relief and protect your smile.
