If you wince from the cold when biting into ice cream, or from that hot cup of tea or coffee hitting your teeth in the morning, then you may have sensitive teeth. This is a common condition; in fact, at least 45 million people suffer from sensitive teeth at least once in their lifetimes. While they can be painful and a bit of a burden for some people, sensitive teeth are, more often than not, highly treatable, and you may find relief by visiting your Pecan Tree dentist’s office.
Reasons for Tooth Sensitivity
There are multiple reasons why you may experience dental discomfort, most of which involve the exposure of a tooth’s sensitive underlying tissues. Tooth enamel, the highly-mineralized, highly-resilient protective outer layer of your teeth, surrounds and protects the main structure of each tooth, called dentin. Similar to bone tissue, dentin is porous, consisting of miniscule tubules that send sensory information to the nerves housed at the tooth’s center (in a hollow chamber called the pulp). If enamel becomes too thin or breaks down, or if a tooth becomes infected by oral bacteria (tooth decay), then the dentin and nerves can become exposed, making the tooth sensitive to irritation, such as hot and cold foods and beverages.
Ways to Treat Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is not inevitable. It can often be prevented with a good hygiene routine, including scheduled dental checkups and cleanings, and tooth sensitivity can usually be treated with prompt dental care.
- Use fluoride toothpaste—Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that strengthens teeth by bonding to thin, weak layers of enamel. Make sure your toothpaste contains fluoride, as well as the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance on its packaging.
- Use a softer toothbrush—Toothbrushes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and from a number of different materials. For effective cleaning, choose a brush with soft nylon bristles, as opposed to harsher ones that can scratch and damage your tooth enamel.
- Use restraint when snacking—To bypass your teeth’s enamel and reach the dentin underneath it, some oral bacteria convert sugars, starches, and other carbohydrates into acids that erode your enamel. Excessive snacking means excessive amounts of acid exposure, an increased risk of enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity, and an enhanced possibility of developing cavities.
ABOUT YOUR GRAND PRAIRIE DENTIST:
Dr. Quinn Smith is a well-respected and highly experienced general, cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentist in Grand Prairie, TX. He takes a patient-first approach that starts from the moment patients enter our Pecan Tree Dental office, and he offers a three-year guarantee on all dental work that he performs. Whether you’re a new or returning patient, you can schedule a consultation or your next appointment with Dr. Smith by contacting us at (972) 262-5111.
