Tooth Sensitivity
If you intentionally avoid hot or cold foods and drinks because of your tooth sensitivity, you may want to contact your local dentist in Parker, Colorado. If you have sensitive teeth, sometimes even simple things like brushing your teeth, eating and drinking, and even breathing cold air can cause sharp temporary pain in your teeth. Tooth sensitivity can be especially annoying as it can rob you of the simple pleasure in life, like sipping a hot cup of coffee. If you are dealing with tooth sensitivity, contact Green Dental Care and Dr. Christopher Green will help treat your tooth sensitivity.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Some people are naturally prone to tooth sensitivity due to thinner enamel (the outer protective layer of the tooth). For other people, the enamel can get weaker due to reasons that include:
- Brushing your teeth too hardly/using a hard toothbrush
- Grinding/clenching your teeth at night
- Consuming acidic foods and drinks on a regular basis
- Gum diseases
- Cracked tooth
To sum it up, tooth sensitivity is caused by the weakening of the tooth enamel which, as a result, exposes the inner layers of the tooth. It is very important to let your Parker dentist know about your tooth sensitivity in order for them to assess it and determine what the problem is and advice you on the appropriate treatment for it. If you leave your tooth sensitivity unchecked, it can cause brushing your teeth to become painful, which can result in improper care of your teeth. Ultimately, it can lead to bigger problems such as tooth decay and gum disease.
How Can You Prevent Tooth Sensitivity?
The best treatment is usually prevention. And unless you are naturally prone to tooth sensitivity, you can prevent it by:
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush to protect your gums and prevent gum loss.
- Using special toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth.
- Avoid consuming excessively acidic foods and drinks on a regular basis.
- Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice daily.
What Should You Avoid If You Have Sensitive Teeth?
In case hot, cold, or acidic drinks and foods trigger sensitivity in your teeth, you should avoid their consumption. Similarly, if other things are causing sensitivity in your teeth, you should avoid them e.g. if brushing your teeth with cold water triggers sensitivity in your teeth, you should start brushing your teeth with warm water instead.
What Are The Treatments for Sensitive Teeth?
If you were not able to prevent sensitivity in your teeth, do not worry as your Parker dentist can cure it with different types of treatments available, some of which are:
- Desensitizing Toothpaste: These types of toothpaste are made of components that prevent the transmission of sensation from the outer layer to the more sensitive nerve area of the teeth.
- Fluoride Treatment: This is a treatment your Parker dentist can give you in their office. Fluoride treatments strengthen the enamel in the sensitive areas of the tooth to reduce the pain.
- A Dental Crown/Bonding: Through the application of local anesthetic, the exposed roots are covered by resin or a dental crown.
- Root Canal Therapy: If the pain in your teeth is severe and other treatments seem to be ineffective, your Parker dentist may recommend a root canal. Root canals are arguably the most effective treatment for tooth sensitivity.