TREATMENT OF SENSITIVE TEETH

Under the protective coating of the teeth is a porous layer of the tooth called, dentin. The dentin layer of the teeth is made from thousands of microscopic tubules. Once the dentin layer of the tooth is exposed, the nerve centre of the tooth can become susceptible to triggers such as cold and heat from food and drinks, sweets, and touch. These triggers can cause the nerve to respond with a short, sharp shocking pain. The dentin layer of the tooth can be become exposed in two ways:

1.Gum Recession

Gum recession occurs when the gums recede below the normal level around the tooth. Gum recession can occur by brushing too hard, using a hard bristled toothbrush, brushing incorrectly, or a combination of these factors. Alternatively, it can also be caused by poor oral hygiene, which leads to the build up of plaque and tartar. The accumulation of tartar can then lead to gum disease, which ultimately, may lead to gum recession.

2.Acid Wear

Acid wear is the wearing away of the protective enamel on the teeth, often caused by exposure to acidic foods and drinks. The enamel on the teeth, is softened by the consumption of foods high in acid such as fruit, fruit juices, wine, carbonated drinks, vinegar, and lemons.
Tooth sensitivity can be easily prevented by keeping the gums from receding by:

  • Using a soft bristled toothbrush.
  • Using gentle to moderate pressure when brushing your teeth.
  • Using proper tooth brushing technique.
  • Preventing gingivitis through good oral hygiene.
  • Having regular dental cleaning and dental hygiene or dentist examinations.

Sensitive teeth may indicate an underlying dental problem such as gum disease or a tooth cavity. Therefore, tooth sensitivity should not be ignored. Always speak to your dental hygienist or dentist about the sensitivity. There are a few ways to treat tooth sensitivity caused by gum recession alone, depending on the severity and frequency of the tooth sensitivity. Often desensitizing toothpaste like Sensodyne is initially recommended. If the desensitizing toothpaste does not help in decreasing the sensitivity, then there are special desensitizing varnishes that can be applied directly to the sensitive tooth area.

These varnishes usually work well at decreasing or eliminating the sensitivity almost immediately. Usually, more than one application of the desensitizing varnish may be needed to fully treat the sensitivity. The procedure of placing the varnish on the tooth usually does not involve any discomfort to the teeth or client.

Get in touch with us for more details on sensitive teeth treatment and preventive techniques.

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