Tooth sensitivity refers to an intermittent jolt of pain one might feel in the tooth. Though the sharp pain occurs when biting or touching another item and fades once the stimulus is removed, it can feel excruciating.
Even if you think you can tolerate sensitivity pain, you should not ignore it. Tell your dentist about this problem because it could be a symptom of a larger dental problem.
You can feel more encouraged to seek urgent treatment from your dentist for this dental concern when you know more about this oral health condition. If you are seeking help for an emergency dental concern, please see Emergency Dentistry. Read on to see answers from your dental professional to common questions regarding tooth sensitivity.
What Makes a Tooth Feel Sensitive?
A healthy tooth features a hard outer layer called enamel, which serves as a protective shield over the more vulnerable interior of the tooth. Though durable, enamel can erode or wear down over time, exposing the dentin, which contains nerves. A number of factors can contribute to this dental damage, hence the need for a dentist’s evaluation and intervention.
An external element, such as food, can then touch the exposed inner layers of the tooth. The nerves there will then transmit pain signals to the brain as a result. This tooth sensitivity will not go away on its own, so you will need to talk to your dentist about relieving this symptom.
How Will a Dentist Treat Tooth Sensitivity?
Treatment for tooth sensitivity pain will depend on the cause of this symptom. For mild cases of enamel erosion, a dentist might recommend using a desensitizing toothpaste during your oral hygiene routine. It contains ingredients that absorb into the nerves to block them from sending pain signals, thus alleviating sensitivity pain.
Thinned or weakened enamel cannot regrow, so tooth sensitivity will not resolve itself. But a dentist can replace lost enamel with restorative dental solutions. They can use a dental crown to cover a damaged tooth, creating a new shield over it to stop stimuli from causing pain.
Other dental problems, like cavities, can make a tooth feel sensitive. If a dentist treats the cavity and gives you a dental feeling, this will also resolve the tooth sensitivity. Find the best treatment for your needs by scheduling a dentist appointment today.
Can I Prevent Sensitive Teeth?
You can reduce your risk of tooth sensitivity by taking proper care of your smile through adequate oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque in a timely fashion before oral bacteria can eat away at your enamel. Maximize oral hygiene by also attending regular teeth cleanings at your dentist’s office.
Your diet can also hurt your tooth enamel. Limit or avoid sugary or acidic foods and drinks that can erode your teeth over time. This will also help to keep your teeth strong enough to resist decay and other dental dangers. For more preventative oral health care advice, especially in regards to preserving your dental structure, call your dentist.