Dental Health
Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive Teeth
If you occasionally experience a sudden flash of pain, or mild tingly feeling when you bite into sweet or sour foods, or drink hot or cold beverages, you may have sensitive teeth. Pain from sensitive teeth is not always constant; it can come and go. Constant pain could be a sign of a more serious problem. Cold sensitivity can be caused by a variety of reasons - it can range from gum recession to irreversible pulpal damage that occurs when decay and the accompanying bacteria enter the pulpal chamber which contains the nerve tissue. This will usually bring acute cold sensitivity and must be treated as quickly as possible in order to avoid a painful abscess. Removal of the damaged nerve is initiated to bring relief and permit healing.
In healthy teeth, porous tissue called dentin is protected by your gums and your teeth's hard enamel shell. Microscopic holes in the dentin, called tubules, connect back to the nerve triggering pain when irritated by certain foods and beverages. Dentin can be exposed by Gum recession which slightly exposes the roots of teeth, Improper brushing (damage to the gum line), Gum disease, Fractured or chipped teeth, Leaky fillings or decay, Clenching or grinding.
Caring for Sensitive Teeth
Use a soft bristled toothbrush to protect the gums and a desensitizing toothpaste (a special toothpaste for sensitive teeth) that will plug up the pores of the roots and either block access to the nerve or insulate the nerve itself therefore decreasing sensitivity. This usually takes a few days to a few weeks to become effective.
Ask your dentist about applying a "desensitizer" or prescribe a fluoride treatment which also can solve this problem. A protective "insulator" may also be placed into the deep areas of the cavity to help protect the nerve of the tooth before placing the restoration. If there is not enough tooth structure left to support a filling then a crown will be necessary.
Appointment not necessary for people in pain.
Call 519-679-Dove (3683).