Biting into something with sensitive teeth can literally be a pain in the teeth! This pain then travels along your nerve endings and can make your face feel like its on fire. This is when you know you have more than just a passing issue with sensitive teeth.
Fortunately you are not alone but there are several things you can do.
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity
Teeth are covered with a substance known as enamel. However, this only applies to the part which is above the gum line. The part of the tooth below the gum line is covered by a substance called cementum. Both of these protect your teeth. However f this material is damaged or your gums start to recede it is possible for hot and cold fluids to get inside your teeth and into the dentin. This allows the fluid to come into contact with the nerves inside your teeth which then sends a shock wave through your body.
In short sensitivity is caused by the wearing a way of your enamel / cementum.
The Cause
If you brush your teeth too hard you’ll cause the gums to recede. Damage to the protective layer can also be caused by too many acidic foods or over use of whitening products.
If you have extremely sensitive teeth then it is likely that you are developing a cavity, have a problem with a filling or may even have fractured teeth.
Treating Sensitive Teeth
If you have got a cavity then you need to have treatment. This can mean a simple filling or you may need to look at a dental crown or even root canal treatment.
This is often the two procedures that strike fear into patient’s hearts but they are not as difficult as you may think. A good dentist will simply remove any dead material from inside your tooth and then fill it. If necessary anchors are added to ensure the strength of the tooth remains.
Your dentist can advise you regarding which is the most effective and practical option in your individual case.
All of these procedures are easily performed at your dentist and can eliminate the pain of sensitive teeth.
Another option if you have lost gum tissue round the roots of your teeth is to have a surgical gum graft. This will be performed by your dentist and will rebuild the gum round the base of your teeth. This will instantly restore the protection of your teeth and reduce the ability of hot and cold liquids to get inside your teeth and cause pain.
What If Your Teeth Are Healthy?
However, if you don’t actually have a cavity or similar problem you may simply be suffering from a wearing a way of enamel and your gums. Using a sensitive toothpaste can often be enough to resolve this issue.
Alternatively your dentist may recommend a course of fluoride gel treatment. This will help to strengthen the enamel on your teeth and reduce the sensitivity of the tooth or teeth.
