If taste of ice cream, sip of coffee or cold drink is sometimes painful or if brushing and flossing makes you wince occasionally, you may have a common problem called as teeth sensitivity. Some of the causes include: worn out teeth, root exposures, gum recession, decay/cavities, cracked tooth etc..
If you're concerned about sensitive teeth, you need to visit your dentist. Dentist can identify the underlying cause of your tooth sensitivity. And might recommend any of the following:
· Desensitizing toothpaste. It is often given in patients having worn out enamel or gum recession. After several applications, desensitizing toothpaste can help block pain associated with sensitive teeth.
· Fluoride. Application of fluoride to the sensitive areas can strengthen tooth enamel and reduce pain.
· Bonding agent. Occasionally, exposed root surfaces can be treated by applying bonding resin to the sensitive root surfaces.
· Surgical graft. If your tooth root has lost gum tissue or if you have overall gum recession, gum tissue can be taken from elsewhere in your mouth and attached to the affected site. This can protect exposed roots and reduce sensitivity.
· Fillings: If the cause of sensitivity is decay/cavity, removing the decay and doing a permanent filling will solve the problem.
· Root canal: If sensitive tooth causes severe pain due to excessive wear or deep cavity (reaching up to the tooth pulp), you might need a root canal treatment. While this might seem like a significant treatment, it is considered the most successful technique for eliminating tooth pain.
To prevent sensitive teeth from recurring, your dentist might offer suggestions to help you maintain your oral health. Twice a day, brush your teeth with a medium-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily.
Avoid vigorous or harsh brushing, highly abrasive toothpaste, and also excessive brushing and flossing. If you grind your teeth, ask your dentist about a mouth guard.Tooth grinding can fracture/wear teeth and cause sensitivity.
You might also consider limiting acidic foods and drinks, such as carbonated drinks,citrus fruits, etc. all of which can remove small amounts of tooth enamel overtime. When you drink acidic liquids, use a straw to limit contact with your teeth. After eating or drinking an acidic substance, drink milk or water to balance the acid levels in your mouth. Also avoid brushing immediately after drinking acidic food.
Have happy teeth!
Thank you.