Written by Dr. Reza Khazaie
Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?
If you have ever taken a drink from a cold or hot beverage you likely at one time or another experienced a sharp dental pain or unexpected sensitivity. If this is a regular occurrence like it is for millions of Americans you may be suffering from tooth sensitivity.
Causes for this pervasive problem involve exposure of the innermost layers of a tooth, such as the dentin and the pulp and the sensitive nerve endings therein, to external stimuli such as rapid temperature changes.
Chances are if you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, there is something amiss with your dental enamel (the hard outer layer of your teeth), or, your dental roots have been exposed as a result of gum recession or trauma to your soft tissues.
While tooth sensitivity may seem harmless at first, it is a good sign that you should visit your dentist for a professional dental checkup. Tooth sensitivity and pain can indicate that something is awry in your mouth.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
The symptoms of sensitive teeth are hard to miss.
Usually, there is no pain when you aren’t brushing your teeth, eating, or drinking. However, when exposed to hot or cold liquids, people with sensitive teeth often experience a temporary, passing pain that fades rapidly once the stimulus has been removed. Some describe this sensation as hypersensitivity.
In some cases, this hypersensitivity is so severe that heavy breathing can result due to intense sensitivity and pain.
Survey: 1 in 8 Americans have sensitive teeth; condition more common among young people, women
KPCC – SCPR.ORG
Sensitive Teeth Remedy
Hypersensitivity can be treated by a dental professional, or in mild cases, with certain products that can be used at home. Treatment for teeth sensitivity depends on the root cause of the sensitivity, whether it be thin enamel, a cracked tooth, a cavity, or periodontal disease for example.
The underlying cause of teeth sensitivity is penetration or reduction of the outer dental enamel (hypomineralization), or, exposure of dental roots as a result of gum recession, periodontitis, or trauma to the soft tissues.
A sensitive teeth remedy will include a solution that addresses the dental enamel or the dental roots which will eliminate or reduce dental sensitivity.
What A Willow Pass Dental Care Patient Says About Tooth Sensitivity
“I have had extreme tooth sensitivity (cold, heat, pressure, and touch) for over a decade, and Willow Pass Dental Care has been the only facility I have found with an entire staff who truly cares about their patients. From my first appointment, Shabi has been my hygienist. We connected over the recurrence of sensitive teeth when we first met, and she has used a numbing cream every time I have my teeth cleaned, to provide the most comfort possible.
For this reason, I not only trust her but also feel that she cares and wants to help. Dr. Sam also helped alleviate my tooth sensitivity this past summer with a procedure involving composite fillings and bonding. Prior to this, I did not believe that I would ever find relief for the sensitivity outside of the routine cleanings.
On top of this, everyone at the front desk has always been welcoming and kind. I am so grateful to have found this gem!”
LISA S.Willow Pass Dental Care Patient
Sensitive Teeth Home Remedy
There are some possible solutions for sensitive teeth that range from simple at-home applications to dental repairs. Depending on the root cause or causes of the hypersensitivity, some solutions may be more appropriate than others.
Home remedies for sensitive teeth include using special toothpaste for sensitive teeth – these kinds of toothpaste aid in covering up the nerve endings which reduce sensitivity. However, they do not address the root causes of tooth sensitivity.
DR. REZA’S BEST TOOTHPASTE FOR SENSITIVE TEETH
Tooth Builder Toothpaste
Tooth Builder Sensitive Toothpaste seals exposed dentin — sensitivity’s main cause. Also fights bad breath, canker sores, and is clinically proven to help bleeding gums and periodontal disease. It also has no unpleasant toothpaste taste.
Hello
hello® toothpaste for sensitive teeth contains fluoride, moisturizes with coconut oil, and is formulated to calm with aloe vera. It will leave you breath fresh with a soothing mint taste. It is BPA-free, no phthalates, free of dyes, SLS/sulfates, no artificial sweeteners, parabens, microbeads, triclosan and gluten. This toothpaste is also cruelty-free, vegan, and made in the USA.
Dental clinic solutions include dental-grade fluoride gel applications and various dental and periodontal treatments aimed at eliminating the root causes of sensitivity.
Dental procedures may include repairing a cracked or damaged tooth, filling cavities, treating periodontitis, or grafting over exposed dental roots.
In extreme cases of tooth sensitivity, your dentist or prosthodontist may recommend a root canal (endodontic) to completely extract and remove the dental nerves responsible for the tooth pain. This is, of course, is a measure of last resort.
10 Possible Solutions for Tooth Sensitivity
- 1Desensitizing toothpaste
- 2Dental-grade fluoride gel applications
- 3Rigorous oral hygiene
- 4Dental extraction and replacement
- 5Replace worn fillings
- 6Eliminate dental caries
- 7Repair a broken tooth with a filling, inlay, crown, or dental bonding treatment
- 8Gum grafts to cover exposed roots
- 9Endodontic (root canal)
- 10Add more calcium and potassium into your diet to improve mineralization
DDS. Prosthodontist