Teeth sensitivity

Experiencing a painful sensation every time you take something hot or cold or whenever you brush and floss your teeth can be signs of tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity can occur due to a variety of causes which include tooth decay, fractures in the tooth structure, worn fillings or tooth enamel, gum disease and exposed tooth roots.

Teeth have a protective layer of enamel which protects the parts of the teeth above the gum line. The tooth roots are covered by cementum. Both the enamel and cementum cover the inner parts of the teeth known as the dentin, which is less dense. The dentin contains canals which have nerves and blood vessels. The dentin can become exposed when the protective covering of the cementum and enamel is lost or when the gums recede. When this happens, heat, cold, acidic or sticky foods can get into the exposed dentin and reach the nerve; causing the pain that is characteristic of hypersensitivity.

Tooth sensitivity can cause a lot of convenience and keep a person from enjoying food but it can be treated. There are various treatments that can be used depending on the cause of the sensitivity. A doctor usually recommends the most appropriate treatment after carrying out a dental examination and determining the cause of the sensitivity. Here are some of the common treatments used:

Treatment for sensitive teeth

Fluoride gel

Fluoride gel is used as an in-office treatment technique to get rid of the sensitivity. It works by strengthening the tooth enamel and reducing the transmission of sensations.

Desensitizing toothpaste

This treatment works by blocking transmissions of sensations to the nerves. It is often used several times before the sensitivity is successfully reduced.

Crowns, inlays and bonding

If tooth decay, fractured or worn enamel is the cause of the sensitivity, crowns, inlays or bonding can usually be used to correct the flaw and form a protective covering for the dentin.

Surgical gum graft

Where tooth sensitivity is caused by the loss of gum tissue, gum grafting can be used to restore the gums and protect the dentin from exposure. This helps in reducing an eliminating the sensitivity.

Root canals

This treatment is used for severe cases of tooth sensitivity which is unresponsive to other treatment measures. A root canal involves removal of affected parts of the dentin and sealing the canals with artificial filling. Filling, and sometimes crowns, are used to restore the upper part of the teeth in order to protect the dentin. This treatment can be recommended by a doctor if the sensitivity problem is persistent.

Even though tooth sensitivity can be treated, the best measure to fight against it is to prevent its occurrence. A key prevention measure is ensuring that optimum dental hygiene is maintained. Teeth should be properly flossed and brushed at least twice every day to prevent tooth decay. Keeping your dental appointments for regular checkup and professional dental cleaning is also important in maintaining good dental hygiene. If you have any concerns about tooth sensitivity or daily routines for good oral hygiene, talk to your doctor.