Are You Struggling With Sensitive Teeth

Sometimes hot, cold, sweet, or very acidic foods and drinks cause you to have discomfort. It can even be just breathing the cold air outside. If you are having these problems, you are probably experiencing tooth sensitivity. It’s not uncommon, and it happens to many people for one reason or another.

Tooth sensitivity can come and go over time. When the enamel that protects your teeth gets thinner or when gum recession occurs, it exposes the nerve. When this happens, it affects the protection the enamel and gums provide to the tooth and root. There are various reasons this could occur, including excessive brushing pressure, teeth grinding or clenching, and the consumption of acidic foods and liquids.

We live in a society that is now consuming many energy drinks. You may be getting a boost in your energy levels, but the acids in the beverages are wearing away at your enamel. If you are not brushing regularly and seeing your dentist, at some point, you will begin to experience the discomfort caused when the enamel wears away.

Treatment Options for Tooth Sensitivity

If you have a problem with sensitive teeth, then having a conversation with us is the first step in finding relief from the discomfort. After we determine the reason for your sensitivity, they will treat the underlying cause.

Treatment may be as simple as fixing a cavity or replacing a worn filling. However, if your discomfort comes from gum loss exposing root surfaces, we may suggest a gum graft to protect the root surface and support the tooth.

Even in situations where there is no apparent cause for your pain, there are numerous ways to help you manage the sensitivity. Your dentist can apply an in-office fluoride gel to strengthen the tooth enamel and reduce painful sensations. At the same time, over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste can block off the nerve endings in the exposed dentin.

We can help relieve your tooth sensitivity. Call Chesapeake Center for Complete Dentistry at 757-465-8900.