Do you feel a sharp, shooting sensation in your teeth while eating or drinking anything hot or cold? Well, what you notice may be due to tooth sensitivity. This is common, especially among adults that may be caused due to several reasons. In this informative blog, a dentist in Chelsea NYC, and their expert team will help us understand everything about tooth sensitivity and how you can get rid of it.
A comprehensive guide about tooth sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by a sharp, shooting pain in the teeth, usually in response to hot or cold temperatures, sweet or sour tastes, or pressure. The pain can be sudden and fleeting, but it can also be persistent and debilitating.
There are several reasons why teeth become sensitive. Some of the most common causes include:
Tooth decay: Bacteria can penetrate the tooth enamel and reach the pulp, causing sensitivity.
Gum recession: Exposed roots can cause sensitivity.
Cracks in teeth: Cracks can allow hot and cold substances to reach the pulp.
Grinding and clenching: Grinding and clenching (bruxism) can wear away the enamel and expose the dentin.
Certain dental procedures: Teeth that have recently undergone dental work, such as fillings or crowns, can be sensitive.
Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses can cause teeth to become sensitive.
Gum or periodontal disease: Inflammation of the gums can cause sensitivity.
The symptoms of tooth sensitivity can vary from person to person, but they usually include:
- Sharp, shooting pain in the teeth
- Pain in response to hot or cold temperatures
- Pain in response to sweet or sour tastes
- Pain when biting or chewing
- Persistent pain that lasts for more than a few seconds
There are several treatments for tooth sensitivity, depending on the underlying cause. Some of the most common treatments include:
Desensitizing toothpaste: Special toothpaste that contains ingredients to block the dentin tubules and reduce sensitivity.
Fluoride gel: Applied to the teeth to strengthen the enamel and reduce sensitivity.
Dental fillings: Fillings can be used to repair decayed teeth and reduce sensitivity.
Root canal therapy: Used to treat teeth that have become sensitive due to pulp damage.
Gum grafting: Used to treat gum recession and exposed roots.
Mouthwash: Some mouthwashes contain ingredients that can help reduce sensitivity.
There are several home remedies that can help reduce tooth sensitivity, including:
Saltwater rinse: Rinsing with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and sensitivity.
Hydrogen peroxide rinse: Rinsing with hydrogen peroxide can help kill bacteria and reduce sensitivity.
Clove oil: Applying clove oil to the affected tooth can help reduce pain and sensitivity.
Garlic: Some people find that chewing garlic can help reduce tooth sensitivity.
Preventing tooth sensitivity is always better than treating it. Some ways to prevent tooth sensitivity include:
Brushing and flossing regularly: Keeping the teeth and gums clean can help prevent sensitivity.
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush: Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush can help prevent gum recession and sensitivity.
Avoid acidic foods and drinks: Acidic foods and drinks can wear away the enamel and cause sensitivity.
Using a desensitizing toothpaste: Using a desensitizing toothpaste can help block the dentin tubules and reduce sensitivity.
Conclusion
Tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. It can be treated with a range of treatments, including desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride gel, dental fillings, root canal therapy, and gum grafting. Home remedies such as saltwater rinse, hydrogen peroxide rinse, clove oil, and garlic can also help reduce sensitivity. Preventing tooth sensitivity is always better than treating it, and can be achieved by brushing and flossing regularly, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoiding acidic foods and drinks, and using a desensitizing toothpaste.