Tooth Sensitivity: What Does It Mean?

WHEN TO WORRY ABOUT TOOTH SENSITIVITY
From time to time, the majority of people will experience tooth sensitivity. Sometimes called dentin hypersensitivity, this typical problem is estimated to impact over half of Americans. Sensitive teeth can make it tough to eat a scoop of ice cream or a steaming sip of tea. Some people only have dental sensitivity only sometimes, but others have persistent discomfort caused by dentin hypersensitivity. In any situation, you should speak with your dentist in Dublin, OH about your teeth if they are sensitive. Dentin hypersensitivity is also a sign of bigger problems, like gum disease or a cavity. If you are worried about your sensitive teeth, then schedule a consultation with our experienced staff at DentalWorks – Dublin and then keep reading to find out more about the causes and treatments for dental sensitivity.

TOOTH SENSITIVITY: THE BASICS
The hard outer layer of the teeth (the enamel) is intended to protect the inner pulp of the teeth (dentin), which is filled with nerve endings. After the tooth is weak or develops a hole, then the nerves within your tooth are easily irritated. Many people notice sensitivity issues when they drink or eat anything that is particularly cold, hot, or sweet. Changes in pressure (such as cold weather or flying in a plane) may also activate pain. Sensitive teeth may be the result of something that’s easily corrected, such as overbrushing or a whitening product, but it could also be an indication of a bigger problem, like gum disease or a cavity. It is crucial that you inform your dentist in Dublin, OH when you are experiencing sensitive teeth so they can identify and address the reason.

COMMON TOOTH SENSITIVITY CAUSES

  • OVERBRUSHING
    Yes, there is such a thing as overbrushing your teeth. This occurs when you’re pressing your toothbrush too hard against your teeth, you’re using an abrasive toothpaste, or you are cleaning over three times a day.
  • CAVITY
    Among the most common signs of a cavity is persistent sensitivity. A cavity is decay in your enamel, which enables irritants to reach the nerves inside the tooth.
  • A CHIPPED OR CRACKED TOOTH
    A chip in your tooth or a crack can lead to sensitivity. If the enamel is damaged, then your nerve may be vulnerable.
  • TOOTH WHITENING
    When you are using a store-bought whitening kit, then you might discover your teeth are sensitive. Although this usually fades after a couple of days, it may be a sign your teeth are damaged, the bleaching gel is overly harsh, or you’re over-bleaching.
  • TEETH GRINDING
    Daytime and nocturnal bruxism (teeth grinding) may cause tooth sensitivity. Typically linked to anxiety, grinding your teeth breaks down the enamel so your teeth are more sensitive.
  • GUM RECESSION
    When your gums recede away from your teeth (usually the consequence of periodontal disease), the roots are visible. This also contributes to greater sensitivity.
  • DAMAGED ENAMEL
    Your teeth may get weak from many things — decay, too much brushing, whitening, acidic foods and beverages, teeth grinding, and more. Weakened teeth are more susceptible to sensitivity and other dental problems.

GETTING DIAGNOSED
Many people have occasional sensitivity during their lifetimes. Just a little discomfort occasionally that may be mended with a special toothpaste or other household treatments. If your sensitivity stops, you should still mention it to a dentist at your next visit. They may have the ability to suggest products or home treatments that will limit your sensitivity. If you’ve got chronic tooth sensitivity, then schedule a consultation with a dentist. They will look for the reason for your sensitivity, which might be a cracked or chipped tooth, a cavity, or a receding gumline. When they diagnose the underlying problem, a treatment will be scheduled to give you relief.

TREATMENT
When you have sensitivity in your teeth, then consider using less pressure while you are brushing, choosing a toothpaste that’s specially made to reduce sensitivity, and brushing only twice a day. In case your sensitivity is brought on by bleaching your teeth using an over-the-counter kit, then ask your dentist for information on professional whitening options. DentalWorks – Dublin provides both home whitening kits and in-office whitening, which your dentist can personalize to provide great results with less sensitivity. Sensitivity brought on by decay, a chip in your enamel, or a cracked tooth may be fixed with a filling or crown. The crown or filling will protect the vulnerable nerve. For nocturnal bruxism, your dentist may suggest a custom night guard to protect your enamel when you are sleeping. Sensitivity from gum recession will usually require a periodontal therapy. This might be a scaling and root planing treatment or periodontal procedure for advanced gum disease. After a treatment is performed to address gum recession, you might also require gum grafts to restore your gumline.

PREVENTING TOOTH SENSITIVITY
To avoid dental sensitivity, be sure to schedule a yearly examination with a dentist in Dublin, OH. They will identify and cure issue like decay, periodontal disease, weakened enamel, and more so they don’t lead to problems like sensitivity. In your examination, it is also possible to ask your team to look at your cleaning technique to be certain that you’re not using too much pressure. Additionally, try to limit foods and beverages that are acidic (citrus juices and fruits, soft drinks, and many processed foods) because this may damage your teeth. To help fortify your teeth, you might ask your dentist about fluoride rinses.

STOP SENSITIVITY IN YOUR TEETH
If you want to stop or protect against tooth sensitivity, speak with a dentist in Dublin, OH. It may be as straightforward as changing your nutrition or brushing technique. But you might require a tooth-colored filling, crown, or even periodontal therapy to address the underlying condition causing your tooth sensitivity. Our seasoned staff at DentalWorks – Dublin can help you develop a custom treatment plan to relieve your sensitivity and enhance your oral health. Contact our practice in Dublin, OH to schedule an examination and appointment if you would like to fix your dental sensitivity.