Sharp pain in the teeth that quickly emerges when sipping a cold beverage or biting on an ice cream is a familiar episode that many of us have, it is called tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity varies from mere inconvenience to severe discomfort that disrupts the normal functioning of life including eating habits. In case you need to address these issues and need to describe any changes to a particular person, just write “Newmarket dentists near me” because this is a search term and you will get many professional to diagnose and treat the causes. This essay offers a comprehensive analysis of tooth sensitivity – identifying preventing and curing strategies to enhance oral hygiene and one’s wellbeing.
Tooth sensitivity or pain, dentin hypersensitivity in dental terms presents when dentin which is a beneath the enamel structure of a tooth is left unprotected. The tubules in the dentin are microscopically small and attach to the tooth nerve. When such exposed tubules are present, it is possible to deliver either hot, cold, acid, or sugar, through the nerve, and experience pain.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Various causes could result in dentin being exposed and subsequent tooth sensitivity:
Enamel Erosion: Consuming sour/acid filled food and drinks, jaw clenching/ teeth grinding, and harsh scrapping of ones teeth result to loss of enamel that covers dentin.
Gum Recession: When the gum recedes whether due to a disease of the periodontium or due to brushing too much and too hard the gum line pulls away exposing a less protected surface than the hard enamel cap.
Cracked or Fractured Teeth: There are also some teeth with cracks and fractures which when exposed will result in the dentin becoming sensitized.
Dental Procedures: Some dental procedures like teeth bleaching or even scaling and cleaning can cause the tooth to be extremely sensitive for sometime.
Cavities: Sometimes even if a cavity is not all the way it still destroys enough enamel to reach the dentin and hence causes sensitivity.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Excessive chewing or compression due to bruxism can remove the enamel on the tooth and expose the dentin.
Symptom of Tooth Sensitivity’:
A sharp, fleeting pain that is characteristic of tooth sensitivity occurs when the following is eaten or done:
– Foods and drinks that are either hot or cold
– Sweetened/acidic cargo or products
– Cool weather
– Cleaning mistakably or overwashing.
Treatment Options for Tooth Sensitivity:
There are several treatment options for tooth sensitivity and the choice of such treatment depends on the causes.
1. Desensitizing Toothpaste – These are toothpastes which contain potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride such that these two elements can be used to desensitize a tube of dentinal tubules.
2. Fluoride Treatment – Fluoride treatments done at the dentist’s office help to remineralise the enamel and reduce sensitivity.
3. Dental Sealants – Apical coating is a material that is quick to set and can be used in case of heating or thaw exposure without any risk of shrinkage.
4. Gum Grafting – In the event of gum recession or with other reasons that exposed the root surface, gum graft is required to address the root exposure and minimize the sensitivity.
5. Dental Bonding – Bonding is also done, which repairs and/or fits over the cracks and fractures on the teeth so that the dentin is not exposed.
6. Root Canal Treatment – In condition of severe cases of contact sensitivity caused by the pulp, root canal treatment is performed.
7. Mouthguards – When sensitivity is a consequence of bruxism, the fitting of a mouth guard according to the shape of one’s mouth.
8. Change in Lifestyle – Eating and drinking habits, as well as, the toothbrush she used and the way she brushes her teeth would need to be altered to prevent any damage to the teeth and gums.
Preventive Measures for Teeth Sensitivity
Implements of oral care strategies are important as they will prevent sensitive teeth. These measures are;
• Using a toothbrush with a soft bristled brush twice a day along with Fluoride contained toothpaste.
• Flossing every day
• Refraining from acidic foods and drinks
• Using toothpaste which is meant to desensitize teeth.
• Maintaining regular and thorough dental examinations and cleanings.
For persistent tooth sensitivity, seeking the attention of a dentist is highly recommended. The dentist is in a better position to determine the cause of the problem and administer the correct treatment.
To conclude, tooth sensitivity is indeed a nuisance that can be cured. By learning how it manifests, how it is caused and how it can be managed, one can begin to find remedies for the problem and continue to practice oral health. Also, remember that it is wise to ask for help from dentists with years of work experience in order to avoid misdiagnosis and to effectively treat the problem.