Teeth can become sensitive by simply breathing cold air or by the consumption of hot, cold, sweet, and sour foods and drinks. The pain caused by teeth sensitivity can be quite sharp and it can suddenly shoot deep into tooth nerve endings. Treatments for it are fluoride, desensitizing toothpaste, and dental bonding. In this blog we’re going to discuss the causes of tooth sensitivity, possible remedies and what a dentist in Albania can do for you to ease the pain.
What is teeth sensitivity?
Teeth sensitivity can happen when the dentin which serves as the underlying layer of the teeth becomes exposed. This is a result of corrosion or wear and tear as well as gum recession, in which the gum tissue recedes away from the teeth, exposing the roots.
Teeth roots not covered by dense enamel contain within themselves thousands of tiny channels that lead directly to the tooth’s center otherwise known as the pulp. A stimulus such as hot, cold, sweet, or sour food can reach the nerve in the tooth, resulting in pain. Teeth sensitivity can also occur during other issues including cavities, periodontitis, or crooked teeth.
What are the causes of tooth sensitivity?
Several factors can affect the development of teeth sensitivity:
- Too harsh tooth brushing: Over time, using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down the enamel, exposing the dentin. Additionally, brushing too vigorously can also cause gum recession.
- Gum recession: Many people are prone to thin gum tissue due to genetics. While others may develop it as a result of gum disease. Gum recession essentially means the gum tissue is pulled away from the teeth, exposing the roots.
- Periodontal disease: Also known as gum disease, this condition occurs due to inflamed and sore gum tissue that causes sensitivity because of the absence of supporting ligaments. Automatically, this exposes the roots leading to the nerve of the tooth.
- Crooked teeth: Because of plaque, crooked or cracked teeth become filled with bacteria that enter the pulp. This results in inflammation of the pulp.
- Teeth grinding: During the night, grinding your teeth unconsciously may also wear down the enamel, exposing the dentin as a result.
- Teeth whitening products: They are major factors and contributors to teeth sensitivity. Before moving ahead and using them make sure to talk to your dentist about the effect they have on teeth sensitivity. It is best that you choose a professional teeth whitening treatment to avoid these issues.
- Age: Teeth sensitivity is more common in people between the ages of 25 and 30.
- Plaque: The buildup of plaque on the root of teeth may cause sensitivity.
- Mouthwash use: The most common over-the-counter mouthwashes have acid containers that cause teeth sensitivity, especially if you have exposed dentin. It can damage the middle layer of the tooth. So, if you have dentin sensitivity, speak to your dentist and he/she will advise you on a neutral fluoride solution.
- Acidic foods: The consumption of regular food that contains high acid like citrus fruits, tomatoes, tea, or even pickles can cause enamel corrosion.
- Recent dental procedures: You should be very careful after a dental procedure because the teeth tend to get more sensitive, particularly during fillings, teeth cleanings, or dental restorations. However, this sensitivity only lasts for a few weeks, four to six to be exact.
How do you stop sensitive teeth pain?
If you are prone to sensitive teeth, make sure to consult your dentist. He/she will help you identify any of the causes of tooth sensitivity. Depending on your underlying motivations and circumstances, he/she will recommend the following:
- Desensitizing toothpaste. Sensitizing toothpaste can be helpful after a few applications. It can often help block the pain that comes with sensitive teeth. There is a wide variety of over-the-counter medicines. Your dentist will help you decide which is the most suitable option for you.
- Fluoride. Your sensitive teeth may be treated with fluoride to strengthen the enamel and reduce pain. A certified dentist might also recommend the use of fluoride at home.
- Desensitizing or bonding. For this procedure, a local anesthetic may occasionally be needed. What it means is that the exposed root of the tooth can be treated by using bonding resin on the sensitive root.
- Surgical gum graft. Sometimes the root loses gum tissue, which is why a tad of gum tissue is taken from other areas in your mouth and attached to the affected site. This reduces sensitivity and protects the exposed roots.
- Root canal. If your sensitive teeth aren’t responsive to other treatments, a root canal is a solution. A root canal procedure is used to treat issues with the tooth’s dental pulp. Though it may sound like a complex and time-consuming procedure it is quite easy and successful when it comes to eliminating tooth sensitivity.
Can sensitive tooth pain go away on its own?
That’s right. Some cases of tooth sensitivity do go away on their own – especially if they were caused by recent dental procedures, like fillings or root canals. Consult a dentist if you experience persistent tooth sensitivity. Your teeth roots may be exposed or your enamel may be worn down. There may be a need for treatment in these situations.
Does a sensitive tooth mean an infection?
Not in every case. Oftentimes, teeth sensitivity means there is wear and tear on the teeth and even gum recession. But other times, it may indicate a cracked or infected tooth. Tooth pain related to an infection can be very achy, sharp, or throbbing.If your teeth sensitivity doesn’t go away on its own or when using over-the-counter solutions, it is time to call a dentist to set an appointment.
Dental tourism in Albania offers all kinds of dental treatments at the most reasonable prices. Taking care of any dental issues immediately will be easier on your budget, as it will eliminate the chance of your condition worsening over time. Don’t hesitate to contact a clinic if you’re experiencing problems.
What is the treatment for tooth sensitivity?
If your tooth sensitivity is mild, over-the-counter options may be the most appropriate dental treatment for you. You should be careful when choosing toothpaste. The toothpaste should be specially formulated for sensitive teeth. These products are compounded with anti-irritating and sensitizing ingredients that block the pain from reaching the nerve of the tooth.
Brushes should be soft and have a smooth texture. Additionally, brushing shouldn’t be too strenuous. Try brushing your teeth as gently as possible. Using a mouthwash that is alcohol-free and non-irritating for sensitive teeth is also essential.
It may take several applications for these home remedies to work. Improvements should be seen within a week. Home remedies typically work. But in case they do not it is time to speak to your dentist and he/she will help you find the right toothpaste or mouthwash. He/she might also apply desensitizing agents and fluoride gel in-office. As a result, these ingredients will help to strengthen enamel, thereby protecting your teeth.
Bottom line
Teeth sensitivity is caused by a variety of factors, including worn enamel, exposed roots, cavities, cracks, and recently performed dental procedures. The cause of your problem determines whether or not you need treatment. Maintaining proper oral hygiene and desensitizing toothpaste can help alleviate mildly sensitive teeth. A tooth with severe sensitivity may require treatment if the tooth has receded gums, has cavities, or is cracked. It is your dentist’s job to figure out the cause of your sensitive teeth and offer an affordable dental treatment to resolve it.
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