When you face some tingling sensation in the teeth while having any hot and cold items, it refers to sensitive teeth. Synonym as dentin hypersensitivity, with this problem you will feel pain and discomfort and an unusual sharp feeling when the teeth will expose to extreme temperatures.
It can be acute or chronic affecting single, few or all of the teeth in both jaws. Initially, you can make use of home remedies and homemade treatment to alleviate the problem. In case, it persists then you need professional medical attention to deal with the issue.
This blog entails the causes, symptoms and treatment options you can seek for this condition. Read this blog to identify your oral problem and opt for proper and effective treatment on time.
What will be the signs and symptoms of sensitive teeth?
Experiencing discomfort and pain is perfectly normal while having sensitive teeth. In fact, this will lead by certain triggers. Other common triggers that enable you to experience pain are:
- Alcohol-based mouth wash
- Hot foods and drinks
- Cold foods and drinks
- Acidic foods and drinks
- Sweet foods and drinks
- Cold water
- Flossing and brushing
Symptoms can range from intense to mild and vice versa and you can have multiple bouts of it too.
What are the causes of sensitive teeth?
Naturally, many people possess thin enamel layer and thus their teeth are more likely to be sensitive. Other sensitive teeth causes include:
- Hard brushing
- Using hard-bristled toothbrush
- Grinding the teeth at night
- Regular consumption of acidic foods and drinks
Several health conditions can result in sensitivity too like GERD (gastroesophageal reflux), Bulimia and Gastroparesis. Dental complexities like chipped teeth, broken teeth and tooth decay and gum recession expose the dentin resulting in sensitivity. In such instances, you will experience more sensitivity in one tooth or a part of the mouth only.
Sensitivity is likely to occur temporarily after certain dental works like teeth bleaching, teeth whitening, crowns and fillings. However, these will subside naturally in a couple of days. In case of persistent problem, you must get in touch with the dentist and they will address the symptoms effectively using suitable treatment
What are the complications of sensitive teeth?
When left untreated for a long time, sensitive teeth can lead to potential complications such as:
- Pain during chewing and biting
- Staining on teeth surface
- Sharp pain
- Sensitivity in one tooth
- Spontaneous toothache without any cause
This problem indicates the gradual spreading of the infection into the tooth root and nerve damaging the tooth completely. In order to save and promote the dental health you may need to undergo extensive and expensive treatment.
How does dentist diagnose sensitive teeth?
Dental appointment is a must to seek sensitive teeth remedy. During the appointment they will look for signs of potential conditions like gum recess, loose fillings and cavities that are accompanied with sensitivity.
It is important to opt for regular dental check up as dentist can ensure that your mouth is free from any potential hazards. Even they will carry out an extensive dental exam and professional dental cleaning. You may need to undergo X-ray for ruling out the risk of any condition like cavities.
What are the treatment options for sensitive teeth?
Some tried and tested sensitive teeth treatment options are:
- OTC dental treatments when you experience mild tooth sensitivity
- Pick up toothpaste made for sensitive teeth. It is free from irritating ingredients and contains desensitising substance for additional comfort to the teeth nerves
- Alcohol-free mouthwash doesn’t irritate the sensitive teeth
- Choose soft-bristled toothbrush and brush the teeth gently
All of these will show improvement in a few weeks. In case, these don’t help then, you have to visit the dentist for check up and treatment. They will apply prescription-grade desensitising agents and fluoride gel for strengthening the enamel and protection of the teeth.
Treatment for underlying dental condition causing sensitivity
Multiple dental conditions are there leading to sensitivity. So, you have to treat them before it wears down the enamel damaging the teeth completely. Dentist can correct GERD by acid reducers. Bulimia can be fixed with the help of a psychiatrist.
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Good oral hygiene and gentle brushing will keep the risk of receding gums at bay. However, severe gum recession needs gum grafting. You can stop grinding all by yourself. In case, you feel it tough then prefer using a mouth guard at night to protect the teeth damage from grinding.
Conclusion
Sensitive teeth make it really tough to eat, bite and chew. In such conditions you must consult with a dentist. Even you can try out OTC mouthwashes and toothpastes, which address sensitive teeth. If you find one tooth suddenly sensitive then it is a clear indication of any underlying dental problems.
At that time, you have to make an appointment with the dentist at Thousand Smiles London to check the signs of potential cavities and root damage. Early intervention will help you to seek early treatment and eventually save your dental health.
