Trimac Dental Centre offers a variety of dental treatments performed by general dentists. The information below is formatted for your printer so you can have this information on hand.
What causes tooth sensitivity?
In order to understand tooth sensitivity we have to look at the structure of the tooth itself. At a microscopic level the roots of the teeth (dentin) have tiny tubes leading into the pulp. These tubes have tiny projections of nerve fiber that extend out into the tubes. Tooth sensitivity is caused by the stimulation of cells within tiny tubes located in the dentin. If the gum moves back or the enamel of the tooth gets worn then these tiny tubes get exposed. This exposure of these tubes can sometimes lead to pain during eating or drinking food and beverages that are hot or cold; touching your teeth; or exposing them to cold air. If you are one of the many people that clenches your teeth then the sensitivity can be even more significant.
Hot and cold temperature changes cause your teeth to expand and contract. Over time, your teeth can develop microscopic cracks that allow these sensations to seep through to the nerves. Exposed areas of the tooth can cause pain and even affect or change your eating, drinking and breathing habits. Taking a spoonful of ice cream, for example, can be a painful experience for people with sensitive teeth.
Is tooth sensitivity a common condition?
Sensitive teeth is one of the most common complaints among dental patients. It is estimated that some 5 million Canadians and at least 45 million Americans suffer at some time from sensitive teeth.
How can I avoid sensitivity?
Some toothpastes contain abrasive
ingredients that may be too harsh for people who have sensitive teeth.
Ingredients found in some whitening toothpaste and tartar-control toothpaste may increase tooth sensitivity as well.
What can I do about sensitive teeth?
- Have your dentist apply desensitizing agents - flouride, varnish, sealant
- Use desensitizing toothpaste
- Flouride application can sometimes help
- Minimize use of tartar control toothpaste
- Minimize acid food intake - soda-pop, spicy foods etc.
- Biteplane therapy may be necessary to control clenching/grinding
- Don't brush too hard!
- Use a extra soft toothbrush - bristles should never get squished
How do I know when it's time to see a dentist?
If a tooth is highly sensitive for more than three or four days, and reacts to hot and cold temperatures, it's best to get a diagnostic evaluation from your dentist to determine the extent of the problem. Before taking the situation into your own hands, an accurate diagnosis of tooth sensitivity is essential for effective treatment to eliminate pain. Because pain symptoms can be similar, some people might think that a tooth is sensitive, when instead, they actually have a cavity or abscess that's not yet visible.
How do the Desensitizing toothpastes help?
Toothpaste for sensitive teeth usually
contain an agent that insulates the tiny dentinal tubules providing
a barrier against sensitivity. It usually takes about a month for
the toothpaste's benefits to come to fruition.
What can the dentist do for my sensitive teeth?
1. Apply a desensitizing agent or a protective coating.
2. Prescribed a stannous fluoride gel or an over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste containing fluoride and either potassium nitrate or strontium chloride.
These treatments help to block the signal in the dentinal tubules to minimize sensitivity.
Ask your dentist to explain the options about tooth sensitivity.