What is Tooth Sensitivity?
The term tooth sensitivity is commonly used to describe dentin hypersensitivity or root sensitivity. In case cold, hot or certain acidic drinks make your teeth painful or sensitive, it means you have sensitive teeth. It is common to sometimes wince when taking hot soup or ice cream. According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), almost 40 million people complain of discomfort as a result of extreme temperature. Nonetheless, if you experience sensitivity in a single tooth, then it could be a sign of an advanced dental problem.
Causes of Sensitivity
Dentine hypersensitivity, or sensitive teeth, is often caused by a number of things which include the following:
• Overzealous brushing of teeth
• Use of stiff-bristled toothbrush
• Overly abrasive toothpaste
The above-mentioned factors can easily wear out the tooth enamel over a long period of time – exposing the inner layer of the dentine. Besides that, tooth enamel can also be eroded by bulimia, acidic reflux or any other conditions that lead stomach acid to enter the mouth. This can be brought by excessive intake of acidic foods and beverages.
But Why Just One Tooth?
It is important to understand that clenching or grinding of your teeth can lead to nerve irritation within specific areas – in case you have an imperfect bite. Besides that, if a periodontal condition resulted in the receding of your gums in a specific area, then the exposed tooth can be just as sensitive to cold or hot.
Is One Sensitive Tooth an Issue?
Definitely yes. The moment you start experiencing sensitivity only in one spot is a clear indication of a dental problem. This is the point you are supposed to start seeking help at the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa. Some people tend to ignore these signs hoping that they will disappear after some time.
Treatment Options for Tooth Sensitivity
1. Desensitizing Toothpaste
This is one of the common treatment methods that can be used to reduce tooth sensitivity. It works by blocking the pain associated with the sensitive tooth. There are several products you can find over the counter for this purpose. It is, however, important to consult your dentist to recommend which one is best for your condition.
2. Fluoride
Your dentist can also decide to apply fluoride to the sensitive parts of your tooth in order to strengthen the enamel of your tooth and subside the pain. You may also be recommended fluoride prescriptions at home – that you can apply using a custom tray.
3. Bonding/Desensitizing
In some cases, bonding resin can be applied to exposed root surfaces to treat or reduce the sensitivity.
4. Surgical Gum Graft
In a situation where the gum tissue of your tooth has been eroded, your dentist can take a small amount of gum tissue from a different place in your mouth and attach it to the affected area. This will definitely protect the exposed root and reduce tooth sensitivity.
5. Root Canal
If the sensitivity of your tooth is severe and all other treatment options are not working, a root canal might be the best option. A root canal is a dental procedure used to treat issues in the softcore of your tooth also called the dental pulp. A root canal is regarded as the most successful method of eradicating tooth sensitivity.
How do You Prevent Tooth Sensitivity from Recurring?
You can prevent tooth sensitivity from recurring in several ways:
• Brush your teeth at least twice in a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
• Floss every day
• Brush gently rather than vigorous scrubbing and don't use abrasive toothpaste
• If you are prone to grinding your teeth, ask for a mouthguard from your dentist. This is because tooth grinding can easily fracture your teeth and cause tooth sensitivity
What Should You do if You Have a Sensitive Tooth?
The first thing you should do after noticing signs of tooth sensitivity is to visit the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa. Do not make the mistake of sitting back – hoping that the tooth sensitivity will subside on its own. In general, tooth sensitivity is a common problem for many people around the world. If you experience sensitivity in one spot of your mouth or tooth, then it means there's an underlying problem. Visiting the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa will help in diagnosing and treating the problem quickly. Contact us today to book an appointment!
