How to treat teeth sensitivity

Teeth sensitivity occurs when the protective enamel on your teeth wears down or the gums recede, exposing the underlying dentin which contain thousands of tiny dentinal tubules which allow the stimuli to reach the nerve in your teeth and leads to discomfort or pain when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. Here are some common causes and management strategies:

How to treat teeth sensitivity?

At-Home Treatments

Desensitizing Toothpaste: Toothpastes formulated for sensitive teeth contain desensitizing agents like potassium nitrate or fluoride that help block the transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve. Use daily for best results.

Fluoride Gel or Rinse: Using a fluoride gel or rinse can help strengthen tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity.

Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and brush gently. Avoid vigorous brushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush, as it can exacerbate sensitivity and wear down enamel.

Avoid Acidic Foods and Drinks: .Reducing your intake of acidic foods and beverages can prevent further enamel erosion and reduce sensitivity. 

Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Maintain regular brushing and flossing habits to prevent gum disease and decay that can worsen sensitivity.

Avoid Teeth Grinding: Use a mouthguard at night if you grind your teeth, as grinding can wear down enamel and increase sensitivity.

If you experience persistent or severe tooth sensitivity, it’s important to consult with your dentist. They can determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments to alleviate discomfort and protect your oral health.

In-Office Treatments

Fluoride Varnishes and Gels: Your dentist can apply fluoride varnishes or gels to the sensitive areas of your teeth to strengthen enamel and reduce pain.

Desensitizing or Bonding Agents: These are applied to the exposed root surfaces to reduce sensitivity.

Dental Sealants: Applying sealants can protect exposed dentin from further damage and reduce sensitivity.

Gum Graft: If gum recession is causing sensitivity, a gum graft can cover the exposed roots and protect them from sensitivity.

Root Canal: In severe cases where other treatments are ineffective, a root canal may be necessary to eliminate sensitivity by removing the tooth’s nerve. 

What causes teeth sensitivity?

Tooth Decay: Cavities can erode the enamel which is the hardest part of the teeth, exposes the dentin layer and lead to sensitivity.

Worn Enamel: Enamel can wear down over time due to aggressive brushing, or age, exposing the dentin.

Gum Recession: Gums can recede due to gum disease or harsh brushing, exposing the tooth roots.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding can wear down enamel and cause sensitivity.

Cracked Teeth: Broken teeth or chipped teeth expose the the inner layers of the tooth.

Dental Procedures: Teeth may be temporarily sensitive after procedures like fillings, crowns, or teeth whitening.

Acidic Foods and Drinks: Frequent consumption of acidic foods or beverages can erode enamel.

Use of teeth whitening products: Some whitening products can cause temporary sensitivity.

What are the symptoms of teeth sensitivity?

• Sudden, sharp pain when teeth are exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.
• Pain or discomfort when breathing in cold air.
• Sensitivity while brushing or flossing, especially if using cold water.
• Sensitivity or pain when eating sugary or highly acidic foods.
• A continuous, mild ache in the teeth.

Summary

Teeth sensitivity is a common condition characterized by sharp pain or discomfort in response to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic stimuli. It can be caused by various factors such as tooth decay, worn enamel, gum recession, teeth grinding, cracked teeth, dental procedures, acidic foods and drinks, plaque buildup, and the use of whitening products. Managing teeth sensitivity involves identifying and addressing the underlying causes. Proper oral hygiene, desensitizing toothpastes, avoiding acidic foods, and seeking professional dental care can help alleviate symptoms. Persistent sensitivity should be evaluated by a dentist to prevent further dental issues and ensure appropriate treatment.

FAQs

Why are teeth suddenly sensitive?

Teeth can suddenly become sensitive due to several reasons such as recent dental procedures like fillings or crowns, tooth decay, gum recession, cracked or chipped teeth and enamel erosion due to age.

How do I fix tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can be fixed by using desensitizing toothpastes, following proper brushing techniques and choosing the soft bristled toothbrush to avoid gum recession.

Can teeth sensitivity be cured?

Teeth sensitivity can often be managed and significantly reduced, but whether it can be completely cured depends on the underlying cause. Sensitivity due to tooth decay or minor enamel wear can often be cured with time and proper care.Sensitivity due to gum recession or severe enamel erosion may not be fully curable but can be effectively managed with treatments.

Is there any home remedy for sensitive teeth?

Yes, several home remedies can help alleviate teeth sensitivity. Using desensitizing toothpaste, salt water rinse, clove oil application to the sensitive area can help reduce the symptoms.

Does scaling causes teeth sensitivity?

Scaling can cause temporary teeth sensitivity. It involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and beneath the gums, can expose sensitive areas of the teeth and gums, leading to temporary sensitivity. This usually diminishes within a few days to a week.

Can tooth sensitivity go away naturally?

Yes, tooth sensitivity can sometimes go away naturally, depending on its cause. Sensitivity after procedures like fillings,crowns, or cleanings typically subsides on its own within a few days to weeks.