Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility
treatment for sensitive tooth

Keep Calm And Get Rid Of Tooth Sensitivity!

Cold food items can make your sensitive teeth feel like a burning mess. We have listed some tips to keep your mouth happy always.

Whether it’s a big mug of iced tea or an ice cream cone, everybody has their favorite summer treat to keep them cool during the heat. When tooth sensitivity stands in the way of relishing your favorite summertime snack, it can be truly painful.

When the protective enamel layer present on your teeth worn out or breaks, the dentin gets exposed. Dentin is more like our bones- it is hard but still porous. It is created of tiny tubules that act as a passageway to the pulp and nerve of the tooth. Tubules provide signals to the nerve in the form of pain to help you realize that the protective enamel is no more present. The result is a triggered pain when you have anything too hot or too cold.

Tooth sensitivity and damaged enamel have several causes. Take a look at some of the most common causes.

Causes of Tooth Sensitivity and Damaged Enamel

  • Clenching and grinding – Bruxism makes the thin layer of enamel at the gumline fall off, thus, revealing the dentin.
  • Acidic diet – A diet that is heavy in acidic foods such as citrus fruits and soda can slowly erode the enamel.
  • Acid reflux – Reflux takes place when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. If this is a chronic issue, the acids can gradually corrode the tooth enamel.
  • Tooth decay – A tiny cavity present in the enamel of a tooth is usually an easy fix, but if left untreated, the decay will slowly eat away at the enamel into the dentin, resulting in pain.
  • Hard-bristled toothbrushes or brushing too hard – when you use a hard-bristled toothbrush or if you use too much force when you brush can wear down the tooth enamel and reveal the dentin.
  • Fractured teeth or worn or missing fillings – When a tooth is broken or worn or you have broken fillings; it let liquids, saliva, and food particles get into the crack or hole in your tooth, resulting in uneasiness. Even a tiny fracture can lead to a lot of pain.
  • Gum disease – Periodontal disease makes the gums shrink back. The roots of the teeth are much softer than the enamel and have a higher risk of decay. When anybody suffers from gum disease, the gums start to recede, revealing this sensitive area that can result in excessive sensitivity even while breathing cold air.

Treatment Options 

Near about 1 in 8 people experience periodic tooth sensitivity. Thankfully, there are even several ways to treat tooth sensitivity that are fast, painless, and less costly. Based on the extent of sensitivity and the cause, the dentist may prescribe a desensitizing toothpaste or fluoride gel as an initial step to help alleviate pain. There are numerous toothpaste and gels available on the market today with different strengths.  

If the cause is clenching or grinding, you may require wearing an appliance during nighttime to stop more damage to your teeth. At times, more involved processes are essential to get rid of sensitivity. Root canals, gum grafts, or a crown may be required to fix the issue.

How should you care for your teeth to prevent sensitivity? 

In several cases, tooth sensitivity can be prevented by –

  • Using the softest toothbrush suggested by your dentist 
  • Reducing acidic foods in your diet
  • Brushing gently (not scrubbing)
  • Flossing once daily 
  • Seeing your dentist/hygienist for professional cleanings at least after every six months. 

By working together with your dental professionals, you can relish your favorite summer treat, and also achieve a healthy smile.

Get the Help you need!

You can get in touch with South Airdrie Smiles if you want to receive the best dental care in Airdrie, AB. Our reliable dentist in Airdrie will always deliver you the quality care and comfort that you are looking for. We do care about your oral needs and also your precious smile! We’re just a call away.