Oral discomfort is never ideal. Tooth pain, sensitivity, bleeding, and soreness can all negatively impact our ability to eat and communicate.
Regarding tooth sensitivity, it can be tricky to know whether to seek professional care or if the issue will resolve itself. That said, if this symptom persists and grows worse, it may be time to visit a dentist near you. They can examine your smile to identify the root cause of the problem and recommend the most appropriate solution to address it.
At Agape Dental, our team is here to assist you with all your dental needs. We encourage you to come in if you have any questions or concerns about your teeth.
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity
If you’ve ever experienced a tingling sensation when drinking or eating something too hot, cold, or particularly sweet, you are dealing with tooth sensitivity. This sensation is by no means uncommon, but if it continues to occur, a more serious problem may be to blame.
Underneath the surface enamel on our teeth is a layer called the dentin. Although the enamel is strong and hard, it is not indestructible, and when it is eroded, the dentin becomes exposed and, therefore, more susceptible. Enamel erosion can arise due to wear and tear or bruxism.
Tooth sensitivity can also arise from exposed tooth roots. When the roots aren’t protected by enamel, they are vulnerable to numerous stimuli. Such signals are sent to the nerve in your tooth, translating into a feeling of pain. Decay, cracks in the tooth, and gum recession can contribute to this.
Lastly, teeth whitening products that are used too frequently or incorrectly can also leave teeth more sensitive. If this is something you’re interested in, it’s wise to book a consultation with a dentist in Millwoods. They can review your dental history and assess your teeth and gums, ensuring you’re a good candidate.
Treatments to Remedy Tooth Sensitivity
Dental clinics offer several restorative treatments that can effectively address tooth sensitivity, and they are described below:
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Dental Bonding
Although bonding is often considered a cosmetic process, it can also help repair damaged teeth. Essentially, composite resin is used to reshape or fix cracked or chipped teeth. The resin itself is tooth-coloured, so it will blend in nicely with your smile. A curing light helps the material bond to your teeth. And, unlike veneers, this process is completely reversible since very little of your tooth needs to be prepped beforehand.
Covering up fissures in your tooth will prevent particles from reaching the dentin and the pulp, which will also prevent the need for more serious procedures like a root canal.
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Dental Fillings
A filling is a common treatment that most patients have acquired at least once in their lifetime. This service becomes necessary when decay builds up on or around a tooth, eventually eating away at its structure. As a result, a small hole is made, rendering the tooth vulnerable to all kinds of damage. Whether a cavity is large or small, near the surface or has reached the pulp, tooth sensitivity is a frequent symptom that arises; it also doubles as an indication that your tooth requires professional care.
When you visit a clinic to get dental fillings in Millwoods, the decay is scraped out, and the tooth is disinfected. The space that’s left is filled in with a special material. Silver amalgam can be used but patients tend to prefer a tooth-coloured resin instead because it’s less noticeable. Dental fillings can last several years with proper care and help shield your teeth against harm.
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Fluoride Treatment
There’s a reason why fluoride is included in your routine dental cleanings: because it effectively wards off cavities. Fluoride encourages your teeth to absorb minerals like calcium that will help keep them strong and healthy. Furthermore, fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral and will not harm your teeth if used properly. The fluoride can be administered in the form of a varnish, foam, or gel. A dental hygienist spreads it onto your smile, where it will remain for one minute; afterward, you can spit and rinse.
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Dental Sealants
Dentists often advise parents to consider acquiring dental sealants for their children. A sealant is a very thin covering that’s bonded to the chewing (top) surface of the tooth, preventing particles from gathering in the grooves there and leading to sensitivity and cavities. Typically, sealants are adhered to back teeth because these are the most difficult for kids to brush.
Here at Agape Dental, our local dental staff can walk you through each service from start to finish so you know what’s involved.
Additional Tips to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity
Alongside regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist and acquiring subsequent treatment, there are measures you can implement at home that can help you avoid tooth sensitivity. They are:
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can scratch and erode the enamel.
- Use sensitive toothpaste. This often contains fluoride.
- Keep up with your oral hygiene.
- Be mindful of what you eat. Highly acidic foods can contribute to enamel erosion.
- Wear a night guard to prevent bruxism.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you’re concerned about tooth sensitivity and looking for a reliable solution, you’re encouraged to visit our local dental practice. We can examine your teeth and help you find the best treatment for your smile. From teeth cleanings to dental fillings near you, we’ll ensure you obtain customized care that suits your needs and goals.
Please give us a call or drop by our clinic in person to get started. Together, we’ll get your tooth sensitivity under control.
