Have you ever experienced sharp pain or discomfort after consuming a spoonful of hot soup or a scoop of ice cream? If yes, then you're not alone. While the tooth pain experienced while consuming hot or cold meals may indicate the presence of a cavity, it is also prevalent in people with worn-out enamel or exposed tooth root.
The ADA (American Dental Association) also confirms that Tooth sensitivity is caused by overtime tooth deterioration, chipping/breakage, worn tooth enamel and fillings, or exposed tooth roots due to rigorous tooth brushing, gum recession, or periodontal disease.
Tooth Sensitivity Symptoms
People having tooth sensitivity may experience pain or discomfort in the roots of the impacted teeth. The following are some of the most prevalent triggers:
- Hot consumables
- Cold consumables
- Acidic consumables
- Alcohol-based mouthwashes
- Dental cleaning using cold water
Remedies and Treatments
If you're experiencing dental hypersensitivity, you must get in touch with dentist near you at the earliest. Any underlying reasons for your sensitive gums can only be identified or ruled out by a specialist. Depending on the condition of your teeth, the dentist may suggest:
Desensitizing toothpaste/gel
In mild to moderate level cases of tooth sensitivity, desensitizing toothpaste can occasionally help block associated dental pain after several applications. A range of over-the-counter formulations are available. Do discuss with your dentist to pick the product that might be best for you.
Fluoride treatment
In order to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce pain, your dentist might even resort to the fluoride application covering sensitive gums. They might also recommend using prescription fluoride at home, which is applied using a specialized tray.
Gum grafting
Over time, if the roots of your teeth have lost gum tissues, a tiny portion can be extracted from elsewhere in your mouth and joined to the damaged site. This can help to protect exposed roots while also lowering sensitivity.
Desensitization or bonding
The exposed root of the tooth can be addressed using bonding resin applied to the sensitive root surfaces. Since it is a bit invasive procedure, the patient might need to be administered local anaesthesia at the beginning.
Root canal
If your sensitive teeth are causing extreme pain and other treatments aren't working, your dentist may advise a root canal to relieve the problem. A root canal is a surgery that treats abnormalities in the tooth's soft core (dental pulp). While this may appear to be an extensive treatment, it is the best and most effective method for removing tooth discomfort.
Final Word
It would help, to be cautious while consuming acidic food items and beverages, such as fizzy drinks, citrus fruits, and wine, as these can all wear away small portions of tooth enamel over time. Always make use of straws to avoid direct contact with your teeth when consuming acidic drinks.
To overcome sensitive teeth, brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-based toothpaste; Also, floss once a day. Instead of aggressive or forceful application, use mild strokes while brushing. Also, excessive tooth grinding can sometimes lead to tooth fractures and discomfort— if you do it, ensure to ask your dentist to suggest which mouth guard to use.
