The Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Sensitivity
In simple terms, tooth pain occurs when the nerves within the teeth become irritated. Normally, our teeth are shielded by a protective layer of enamel. Beneath this, there’s dentin, followed by the pulp containing connective tissue, blood vessels, and the tooth’s nerve. If the enamel thins or is breached, exposing the dentin, the nerve loses its protection. Tooth sensitivity is typically caused by various practices or conditions that harm tooth enamel.
Ways tooth enamel can be damaged include:
- Consuming acidic foods and beverages, particularly before bedtime.
- Neglecting regular dental care, such as flossing.
- Brushing too vigorously or using a hard-bristled toothbrush.
- Trying to use professional dental tools at home.
- Health conditions like bulimia or acid reflux, which expose teeth to stomach acid.
- Untreated gum disease or gum recession.
- Damaged, cracked, or chipped teeth.
- Dental cavities, especially if left untreated.
- Use of tobacco, cannabis, or vaping products.
- Teeth grinding or clenching.
- Excessive use of certain teeth whitening products.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
The first and vital action to take when experiencing dental pain or discomfort is to schedule a visit to the dentist. This appointment allows us to pinpoint and tackle any potential underlying reasons for your toothache, as well as offer guidance on treating any identified damage or decay. With a formal diagnosis in hand, you can move forward with assurance, assured that you’re following the correct course of action. Now, let’s delve into the entire process extensively:
Figure out the underlying cause
We won’t make any assumptions. During your examination, you’ll be prompted to describe the sensitivity and how often it occurs. New X-rays may be necessary, and the dentist will perform a comprehensive assessment of your teeth and gums. Further diagnostic evaluations, such as the tap or cold test, might also be employed to assist in your diagnosis.
Treatment in the office
Damaged or decayed teeth can be treated using various restorative options, ranging from simple fillings to more intricate procedures like crowns. In cases of worn enamel, you might be able to address it at home, but there are also in-office treatments to consider. We will thoroughly discuss all available options with you, and ultimately, the decision will be yours to make.
Personalized Advice
As evident, numerous factors can contribute to tooth sensitivity. Following a dental examination, your dentist can accurately pinpoint the specific causes. We can provide personalized tips and techniques to help strengthen your enamel at home and minimize the risk of future tooth decay.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Swap out your toothbrush for one featuring soft bristles. Brush your teeth twice a day with desensitizing toothpaste, paying gentle attention to the gumline. Incorporate regular flossing into your routine and rinse with a mouthwash containing fluoride. Reduce intake of acidic and sugary foods and beverages, particularly before bedtime. If you catch yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, explore mindfulness or relaxation methods to ease jaw tension. For a lasting solution to sensitive teeth, it’s essential to schedule a comprehensive dental examination to pinpoint and address the root cause.
Improving your at-home dental hygiene routines may, in some cases, help alleviate tooth sensitivity. By upholding a standard of cleanliness that inhibits additional erosion and decay, your enamel might have the potential to undergo repair. Fluoride treatment can greatly assist in this regard. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to recognize that dental discomfort serves as a natural signal of an underlying problem necessitating care. If your enamel has worn down to the extent that dentin is exposed, you could be vulnerable to developing an infection or abscess and should seek professional assessment.
Stress can indirectly exacerbate tooth sensitivity. Heightened stress levels may prompt individuals to overlook their usual oral hygiene practices, indulge in more sugary or acidic foods, or escalate their smoking habits. Additionally, stress can precipitate teeth grinding or clenching, a habit individuals may unwittingly display, even during sleep.
Acids erode the enamel. Sweet and starchy foods nourish the bacteria in your mouth, leading to the production of an acidic byproduct that contributes to enamel erosion. Additionally, hard foods can wear down your enamel or pose a risk of damaging a tooth.
– Acidic foods: Coffee, wine and other alcohols, fruit juice and fruits (especially citrus!), soda pop, tomatoes, pickles and vinegar.
– Sweet foods: chocolate, jams and jellies, caramel, sugar, hard candies, ice cream and an extra special second mention for juice and soda!
Simple starches: donuts, cake, bread, potato chips, crackers and cookies.
– Hard foods: chewing on ice, chewing hard candies, chewing foods that may contain a pit or hard kernel such as popcorn, cherries and olives.
– This doesn’t mean you need to avoid all these foods. Simply practice moderation and routinely clean your teeth, especially before bed.
Keep in mind to opt for beverages, snacks, and meals that are low in acidity and sugar. High-fiber foods are beneficial for your teeth, as is dairy since it stimulates saliva production. Aim to incorporate a diverse and nutritious diet rich in protein and calcium. Here are some food options you can include:
– Drinks: Water, green tea, black tea.
– Snacks: Raisins and nuts, celery and carrot sticks, apple slices. Cheese.
– Supper: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, meat and potatoes with a side of veggies.
– Dessert: Yogurt, ricotta and berries, apple sauce.
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