Sensitive teeth can be very uncomfortable and change your way of life. This may make you avoid your favourite ice cream or even a cold drink in the summer. Now we are in the middle of winter, the most common complaints include pain when breathing cold air and also pain when drinking cold tap water.
Sensitivity can be the beginning of gum recession or even a broken rotten tooth. If you suffer from sensitivity, report this to your dentist and have this examined.
Causes of tooth sensitivity
- Worn tooth enamel from using a hard toothbrush and using a hard grip while brushing aggressively.
- Tooth erosion due to highly acidic foods and beverages.
- Tooth decay, worn leaky fillings and broken teeth that expose the dentin of your tooth.
- Gum recession that leaves your root surface exposed.
- Grinding your teeth at night.
- Post dental treatment sensitivity – common, but temporary, especially with procedures such as crowns, fillings and tooth bleaching.
How do we treat sensitivity?
- Change toothpaste. This is a relatively simple way of reducing sensitivity. Toothpastes such as ‘Sensodyne’ and ‘Oral B Pro Expert’ are toothpastes we recommend and patients have reported improvements. Applying a small layer of toothpaste every few hours helps to replenish the chemicals, which reduces sensitivity.
- Dental varnish. This is a thin layer of varnish applied by the dentist and helps to block out the little pores in your teeth to reduce sensitivity.
- Filling. If the defect is large then a filling might help. If you have a broken or leaky filling then a replacement is recommended.
If you suffer from sensitivity then don’t forget to speak to your dentist about this. Call 01782 782 520 to arrange a consultation.
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