As anyone who has experienced sensitive teeth will relate, they may be incredibly unpleasant. Others may perceive you as whining. You cannot ignore the discomfort caused by cold sensitivity in your teeth until it subsides.
This might happen as a result of acidic foods, such as ice cream, causing your enamel to erode. If it occurs frequently, though, you may have an issue with sensitive teeth.
You and Your Dental Sensitivity
If your teeth are sensitive to cold, they are almost certainly also sensitive to heat. Teeth that are susceptible to temperature extremes, such as cold air or hot liquids, will get inflamed. What can you do while you wait for your dentist's appointment?
Begin by determining what is causing your teeth to hurt. Following that, determine the most appropriate tooth sensitivity remedy for your case. "'
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Bear in mind that there is always an underlying cause of tooth sensitivity; therefore, do not dismiss it. Your initial discomfort may have been caused by cold beverages or acidic foods. However, there is a significant concern with your dental health that is not readily apparent.
A prompt dentist consultation may enable you to address the issue before it worsens. Your sensitive teeth's underlying cause will decide the type of dental treatment you require.
How Do You Determine Whether or Not You Have Sensitive Teeth?
When consuming cold liquids or hot coffee, people with sensitive teeth frequently experience sharp or severe discomfort. You do not require it to be contained within the mouth's tissues. The pain radiates as though a knife has been inserted into your head. ("Brain freeze" is derived from this occurrence.)
In a nutshell, it's inconvenient.
If a tooth that is sensitive to cold or heat is exposed to those extremes, a severe toothache may follow. As a result, in order to avoid discomfort, it is necessary to first comprehend what is occurring.
The Most Common Causes of Teeth Sensitivity
The most likely cause of your tooth's temperature sensitivity is a worn-down enamel layer. The outer layer of a tooth is called enamel, and it acts as a protective barrier for your nerves.
Dentin, the substance that makes up enamel, can deteriorate over time as a result of tooth disease, gum recession, and other reasons. This layer of protection is naturally incorporated into healthy teeth. However, when the dentin deteriorates, the tooth's surface erodes. As a result, your tooth enamel is more susceptible to heat and cold damage.
Dentin is composed of an intricate network of canals and empty areas. The nerves and cells within the tooth are heated and cooled via the tubules. Sensitive teeth develop as a result of dentin loss. To address this issue, we must first determine why dentin is disappearing.
There are numerous causes for your teeth to become sensitive to heat and cold, including the following:
- cavities
- Dental rot in its infancy
- Clenching of the teeth (bruxism)
- Gum disease left untreated
- Gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, is the cause of both receding gums and tooth loss.
- Using a toothbrush without soft bristles or non-ADA-approved items
- disregarding the necessity of abstaining from acidic foods
- A tooth that has been injured, such as one that has been cracked
These are the most common reasons for sensitive teeth, although your daily habits may also play a role. When you smoke and ignore your dental care, you increase your chance of getting sensitive dentin, gingivitis, and tooth enamel loss.
Treatment for Tooth Sensitivity
At first, when you first notice the cold sensitivity or other sensations, there are a few things you can try at home to see if they assist.
To begin, purchase a soft-bristled brush if you do not already own one. Put an end to the use of any toothpaste or mouthwash containing alcohol. These can be overly abrasive and cause inflammation of the teeth. If you continue to have problems, look for signs that you are grinding your teeth while you sleep.
If you do this, both your enamel and your jaw will suffer. You may experience headaches, neck, or shoulder pain for "no reason."
Bruxism Treatment
If you feel that you are grinding your teeth, you should visit a dental professional immediately. If you're having difficulty sleeping, you may be suffering from stress or a sleeping disorder. To help prevent further damage, the dental practice may give mouth guards similar to enamel covers.
Meanwhile, your physician can assist you in developing a treatment plan for bruxism, the medical word for teeth grinding. If you do not identify what is causing you to grind and clench your teeth while sleeping, the result could be fatal.
Basic Treatments for Sensitive Teeth
If you have a sensitive tooth, the sort of dental repair that will be necessary is determined by the source and severity of the disease.
The first step is prevention. With the assistance of your dentist, it is possible to alter your dental hygiene practices. There are numerous things you can do, such as minimizing your intake of acidic and sugary foods.
Finally, wash your teeth frequently and with desensitizing toothpaste to help maintain the health of your gums. However, if your gums continue to recede and your teeth remain sensitive to cold and heat, it is time to seek therapy.
Enhancing the Stability of the Enamel
Enamel protects the roots of your teeth and the sensitive nerve endings within them. To decrease sensitivity, a fluoride gel may be prescribed. When you use this product on a regular basis, your teeth's enamel is reinforced and the protective layer that was destroyed is restored. This can be accomplished at the workplace or at home with the assistance of specialist items and a number of procedures that are readily available during normal business hours.
Root Canal Treatment
A sealant can be used to reduce tooth sensitivity caused by cavities. However, if your tooth is sensitive to cold as a result of gum disease, receding gums, or visible tooth roots, a root canal treatment may be necessary.
The infected pulp in your teeth is removed during this procedure. After cleaning the gum line and tooth, the dentist will install a crown over the exposed roots.
What Is Causing Your Teeth To Develop Sensitivity? We Are Here To Assist.
If you have sensitive teeth, you should make an appointment with your dentist immediately. A dental visit can aid in the prevention of tooth decay and gum recession. Contact our office now to learn how we may assist you in improving or maintaining your oral health.