Are you experiencing tooth twinges when eating or drinking hot and cold foods and drinks or from brushing? Teeth sensitivity is one of the most common dental problems, but there are treatment options available.
Practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding acidic and sugary foods and drinks and getting regular teeth cleanings can help prevent sensitivity. However, in some cases a more involved treatment is needed.
Toothpastes
If you have sensitive teeth, toothpastes made specifically for that condition can help provide relief. These toothpastes typically contain ingredients that block the tubu 韓国歯列矯正 les in your dentine, the soft center of your tooth. They also may contain potassium nitrate, which acts as a nerve calming ingredient that prevents your nerves from receiving pain signals from aggravators like hot and cold food and drinks.
Toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth also may include a desensitizing agent such as hydroxyapatite, a mineral that can rebuild your enamel over time. These toothpastes often are free of fluoride, dyes, and other irritants. Tom’s of Maine Fluoride-Free Rapid Relief Sensitive Toothpaste, for example, is one of the best natural sensitive toothpastes available. It contains no dyes or irritants and doesn’t contain Triclosan, an additive that some research suggests is overused and potentially harmful.
While toothpastes formulated for sensitive teeth can offer some immediate relief, the best way to treat your sensitivity is to visit your dentist and see what more permanent treatments might be right for you. If your sensitivity is caused by a more serious issue such as weakened enamel or recessed gums, these treatments can address the underlying problem and provide long-lasting relief.
Flossing 韓国歯列矯正
Tooth sensitivity can be very uncomfortable, especially when brushing and flossing. It can also indicate serious dental issues such as gum disease and tooth decay. The pain experienced can range from a dull ache to a sharp, throbbing sensation that is often felt in only one spot.
If you suffer from sensitivity, your dentist may recommend using a desensitizing toothpaste or fluoride rinses to help relieve your symptoms. These products contain compounds that work to block transmission of sensations from the surface of your teeth to the nerve inside.
Regular flossing helps to remove gunk from the hard-to-see spaces between your teeth. Not only is this a great way to prevent gum disease, but it can also improve your oral health by helping you to avoid plaque buildup, which is one of the main causes of tooth sensitivity.
Sealants
In some cases, sensitive teeth develop because of receding gums or exposed tooth roots. In those cases, a dentist may advise you to get sealants for your teeth. This treatment can be very effective in reducing the pain caused by eating and drinking hot or cold foods or drinks.
The procedure is quick and painless. First, the teeth are cleaned to remove any plaque and debris that might be present. The chewing surfaces of the teeth are then etched, which helps the sealant bond to the tooth. After the etching, the tooth is rinsed and dried. Then, the dentist paints on a thin coating of the sealant.
The sealant is a body-safe resin that covers the pits and grooves of the teeth. This helps prevent food from getting in the cracks and grooves where cavities can form. Typically, we apply sealants to children’s teeth after their permanent molars erupt, but adults with high risk for decay can benefit from this treatment as well. The sealants last for several years before reapplication is necessary. If you have any questions about treating tooth sensitivity or want to schedule an appointment, contact the dentists at Smiles by Rizzo in Carlstadt, NJ!
Bonding
Tooth bonding is a cosmetic dentistry treatment that can restore chipped, cracked or discolored teeth, close gaps and even alter the shape of your teeth. It involves applying a composite resin material to the damaged tooth and then hardening it with a special dental light. The resulting appearance is virtually indistinguishable from the natural tooth.
Unlike veneers, which require extensive preparation, tooth bonding is minimally-invasive and suitable for many patients. The initial procedure usually takes less than an hour and does not require anesthesia. However, the dental professional will likely numb the treatment area to ensure your comfort.
While bonded teeth are generally durable, they can break or chip if subjected to extreme pressure or force. If this occurs, you may experience discomfort that lasts for a few days or weeks. If the pain persists, it may be a sign of other dental issues such as an abscess, cavity or inflamed tooth pulp. In these instances, other restoration treatments may be necessary. Regular visits, proper brushing and flossing as well as the use of antiseptic mouthwash will help to prevent further damage and sensitivity.
Root canal
When sensitivity is caused by an infected tooth pulp, it can only be addressed with root canal treatment. The dentist will access the diseased tissue and remove it, cleaning inside of the tooth and in the canals that extend from the root tip to the crown. We will then fill these areas with a rubber-like material to prevent future infection.
A bump on the gum (fistula) is another indicator of an infected tooth. It occurs when acidic waste from dead pulp tissues leaks out of the infected area and irritates surrounding tissue. This leads to swollen and tender gums that resemble little pimples.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, rinsing with salt water, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, applying clove oil and cold compresses are all effective ways to reduce discomfort after a root canal. If symptoms persist, seek advice from your dentist or physician. The dentist will determine if the sensitivity is caused by infection or injury to the nerves. In this case, a root canal may be the only effective option for your comfort and recovery.