How to Deal with Tooth Sensitivity?

Posted by Lucy petterson on November 20th, 2023

Are you someone suffering from tooth sensitivity? Read on to discover effective strategies for managing this common dental issue and enjoy a pain-free smile.

Tooth sensitivity, also called dentin hypersensitivity, occurs when the protective layer of enamel on your teeth wears down, exposing the sensitive dentin underneath. One of the most prevalent signs of dental sensitivity is abrupt, acute pain that occurs when one consumes hot, cold, sweet, or acidic meals and beverages. Furthermore, a significant portion of the population is impacted by this condition, which is becoming more common. Multiple studies have shown that the prevalence of dental sensitivity is higher in cities as a result of dietary changes toward acidic and sugary foods and changes in lifestyle.

Fortunately, there are some effective treatments available to help manage tooth sensitivity. In this blog, Mindful Dentists are sharing some tips and recommendations to alleviate tooth sensitivity and improve oral health.

But first, let's understand why tooth sensitivity occurs.

What is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is often described as an exaggerated response to certain stimuli, such as hot or cold temperatures, sweet or sour foods, and even brushing or flossing. However, according to Kushel Morjaria, a dentist at Mindful Dentist, tooth sensitivity is a much more complex issue than just a reaction to stimuli.

To understand why tooth sensitivity occurs, it helps to know a little about the structure of your teeth. Each tooth has a crown, which is the visible part of the tooth, and a root, which is what holds the tooth in place in your jaw. The components of the crown include the tooth enamel, cementum, dentin, and pulp. The tooth enamelis the hard, white-looking layer that protects the sensitive inner parts of each tooth. When it comes to hardness, it's even stronger than bone.

The dentin of your tooth becomes visible if the enamel begins to erode or wear away for any cause. This results in the transmission of nerve signals from the tooth root to the brain, which means that actions that often don't hurt, such as eating popsicles or sipping hot beverages, might suddenly produce pain.

Preventive Measures for Tooth Sensitivity

Now that you know what is tooth sensitivity and how it occurs, let's discuss some preventive measures to help alleviate or avoid tooth sensitivity.

• Regular oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, is crucial for tooth health and enamel erosion, but using a soft-bristled toothbrush is essential to prevent gum recession and enamel wear.
• If you desire a sparkling smile, get teeth whitening in Southeast London from a reputable dental professional rather than using over-the-counter whitening products, as they can contribute to tooth sensitivity.
• Desensitizing toothpaste, which blocks sensation transmission from tooth surface to nerve, offers relief from sensitivity and is widely available in the market.
• Diet can prevent tooth sensitivity by limiting acidic or sugary foods and drinks, and using a straw to minimize contact with teeth.
• Using a night guard can protect teeth from bruxism, a condition where grinding occurs at night, as it can wear down enamel and increase sensitivity.
• Avoid DIY whitening products and acidic mouthwashes to prevent tooth sensitivity. Maintain daily oral care with soft toothbrushes and floss for sensitive teeth.

Treatment Options for Tooth Sensitivity

According to Rikul Patel, a dentist at Mindful Dentists, there are plenty of treatment options available for tooth sensitivity. These include:

• Desensitizing toothpaste, containing potassium nitrate, is often used as the first treatment for reducing sensitivity to pain signals from tooth to brain.
• Fluoride treatment can strengthen tooth enamel and reduce pain, and dentists may suggest home-applied prescription fluoride via a custom tray.
• Bonding resin can treat exposed root surfaces, requiring local anesthetic. If a tooth root loses gum tissue, a surgical gum graft can protect exposed roots and reduce sensitivity.
• A root canal is recommended for severe tooth sensitivity due to ineffective treatments, effectively treating problems in the soft core of the tooth.

Bottom Line

Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene and a healthy diet can go a long way in preventing tooth sensitivity. So, keep up with your dental care routine, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your Mindful Dentists if you have any concerns. Here’s to a lifetime of happy smiles!