03 Jan A Comprehensive Guide to Tooth Sensitivity
It often catches you off-guard the first time—you sip a hot or cold beverage and suddenly your teeth start to ache. Tooth sensitivity leaves us vulnerable to pain and forces us to adjust our lifestyles and eating habits. However, it can also be a warning that your teeth face much more serious issues than an occasional ache.
At Prescott Dentistry, our philosophy pushes us to examine and understand every connection between your teeth and your overall dental health. We can identify the underlying cause of your tooth sensitivity and offer effective treatment options.
What Is Tooth Sensitivity?
When the sensitive dentin (the inner layer of the tooth) or the root of a tooth is exposed, food and liquids can come into direct contact and cause pain. Typically, your tooth enamel or gums will protect the inner layers of your teeth. However, if your tooth enamel or gums have been damaged, the dentin and roots of your teeth are left vulnerable.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Exposure of the dentin or root of the tooth causes sensitivity to cold and hot foods. Enamel erosion and gingivitis are the main causes of this condition. Your enamel and gums can be damaged by many different practices and conditions, such as:
- Gradual enamel erosion over time
- Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too hard
- Teeth grinding
- Receding gums
- Gum disease
- Acidic foods
- Cavities or fractures
Any one of these issues could be the underlying cause of your tooth sensitivity. If you’ve ever experienced this condition, it is important that you speak with a dental professional who can identify the unique causes in your case and recommend an appropriate treatment.
How Do You Treat This Condition?
A dental professional can identify and treat tooth sensitivity to hot and cold foods.Because causes vary widely from person to person, only a dental professional can recommend the right treatment. Generally, treatments will be lifestyle-related, as enamel erosion and gum recession often begin because of bad habits.
Of course, preventive methods can help you manage the pain of your condition. However, if the damage to your teeth is particularly severe, you may need more intensive repair work on your teeth in order to prevent further aggravation and pain.
Are You Suffering from Tooth Sensitivity?
If you’ve recently started suffering from tooth sensitivity or have been for a long time, there’s no need to accept this pain as part of your life. Here at Prescott Dentistry, we can assist you in preventing the pain that tooth sensitivity causes so that you can get back to enjoying food and drink without fear. More importantly, we can assist you in understanding the root of your condition and offer treatment options for its causes. Contact us today so that we can get to work protecting your sensitive teeth.
Photo by Caroline LM on Unsplash.