Typically worn enamel can expose tooth roots which can increase sensitivity to temperature changes in food and beverages. Other times, the pain or sensitivity can be caused by more serious issues like a cavity, a fractured tooth, a filling which has been worn down or even gum disease.
Tooth sensitivity is not an uncommon occurrence. It has been estimated that approximately 12% of all adults suffer from some form of hypersensitivity with regard to their teeth.
HOW TO EASE TOOTH SENSITIVITY
There are certain toothpastes specifically gear to treating sensitive teeth by coating them with a pain-relieving layer. It desensitizes the overactive nerves and relieves the symptoms. These are available over the counter. If these do not provide any relief, there are prescription strength pain relievers and desensitizing toothpastes available.
The problem with those treatments mentioned above is they only treat the symptoms. In many cases there are underlying causes for the tooth sensitivity. Obviously, the sooner the treatment can begin, the better it is for the enamel.
In some cases, due to aggressive brushing, the gums can recede and expose more of the tooth leading to potential rapid decay. This can make the tooth sensitive because it does not have the protective gum tissue covering enough of the tooth. Most times brushing gently with a soft bristle brush, flossing, and using mouthwash, will help the gums to return to normal. If not, a gum tissue graft may be needed.
Another cause of hyper-sensitivity is clenching or grinding your teeth while sleeping. To combat this try cutting out caffeine and trying to reduce stress before bedtime can help. If it does not help enough, there are mouthguard options available to wear at night which keep your teeth from grinding against each other. If you have some sensitive spots whether on a single tooth or across several they should be looked at in our dentist hamilton ga.