Sensitive Teeth
Is the taste of ice cream or a sip of hot coffee sometimes a
painful experience for you? Does brushing or flossing make you wince
occasionally? If so, you may have sensitive teeth.
Possible causes include:
- Tooth decay (cavities)
- Fractured teeth
- Worn fillings
- Gum disease
- Worn tooth enamel
- Exposed tooth root
In healthy teeth, a layer of enamel protects the crowns of
your teeth—the part above the gum line. Under the gum line a layer called
cementum protects the tooth root. Underneath both the enamel and the cementum
is dentin.
Dentin is less dense than enamel and cementum and contains
microscopic tubules (small hollow tubes or canals). When dentin loses its
protective covering of enamel or cementum these tubules allow heat and cold or
acidic or sticky foods to reach the nerves and cells inside the tooth. Dentin
may also be exposed when gums recede. The result can be hypersensitivity.
Sensitive teeth can be treated. The type of treatment will
depend on what is causing the sensitivity. Your dentist may suggest one of a
variety of treatments:
- Desensitizing toothpaste. This contains compounds that
help block transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve,
and usually requires several applications before the sensitivity is
reduced.
- Fluoride gel. An in-office technique which strengthens tooth
enamel and reduces the transmission of sensations.
- A crown, inlay or bonding. These may be used to correct
a flaw or decay that results in sensitivity.
- Surgical gum graft. If gum tissue has been lost from the root, this
will protect the root and reduce sensitivity.
- Root canal. If sensitivity is severe and persistent and cannot be
treated by other means, your dentist may recommend this treatment to
eliminate the problem.
Proper oral hygiene is the key to preventing
sensitive-tooth pain. Ask your dentist if you have any questions about your
daily oral hygiene routine or concerns about tooth sensitivity.
Above article from: www.MouthHealthy.org
Tel: 717-259-9596
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East Berlin, PA 17316
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