04 May What causes tooth sensitivity?
The zinging sensation you feel from tooth sensitivity can be due to a myriad of causes. A visit with the dentist will determine why this is happening to you; and what can be done to bring you relief. One of the most common causes is due to gum recession. When the part of the tooth originally protected by gum tissue is exposed, the hard enamel that covers the crown of the tooth is replaced by a softer covering called cementum. Brushing improperly with a hard bristle toothbrush or with an abrasive toothpaste can wear gum tissue away resulting in gum recession.
Gum disease is another culprit that can cause tooth sensitivity. Plaque buildup hardens around the base of the tooth, and if not removed can push beneath the surface of the tooth. Symptoms you may be developing gingivitis (gum disease) include: red, swollen, or bleeding gums; chronic bad breath; teeth pulling away from gums; or teeth feeling loose.
You cannot rule out a cavity or a broken tooth when experiencing tooth sensitivity. Any time the root of the tooth is exposed to certain foods or temperatures, a momentary burst of discomfort can occur.
A visit to the dentist is needed to identify the problem. If dental decay is at fault, an x-ray will determine if a simple filling is all that is needed. If a cavity has resulted in damage to the dental nerve, root canal therapy may be needed.
If a tooth is cracked or broken, a dental crown is usually the solution. Crowns today are much more aesthetically pleasing in that they can be made to match surrounding teeth in size, shape, and color making their placement virtually undetectable.
Gum disease is treated by removing the plaque that has grown beneath the gums. This is often referred to as root planing and scaling. Your dentist can provide periodontal treatment, but it is up to the patient to make sure appropriate dental care is administered daily to prevent a reoccurrence.
Gum recession may be resolved with dental bonding to cover the exposed dentin with a composite material.
There are toothpaste and oral rinses that are recommended to aid in sensitivity protection. They work by closing the tubules in the tooth that allow temperature, sweet, and sour to reach the nerve of the tooth.
Our dentist will provide the correct treatment to relieve tooth sensitivity, so call us today!