Tooth Sensitivity 101 – Causes and Treatment

Tooth sensitivity is a common concern that can affect anyone. Whether it’s a sharp, shooting pain when enjoying ice cream or a dull ache when sipping on your favorite soup, Dr. Barbu and our team at Roam Dental are here to help. We will determine the cause of your tooth sensitivity and work with you to provide long-lasting relief.  

What Are the Causes of Tooth Sensitivity?

Most people describe tooth sensitivity as a sharp pain when eating or drinking something hot or cold. However, sweet and sour foods, brushing and flossing, alcohol-based mouthwash, or even cold air can lead to sensitivity. The discomfort can be mild or severe and may come and go for no apparent reason.  

Tooth sensitivity typically develops when the tooth enamel wears down, exposing the porous layer beneath called the dentin. Inside the dentin are microscopic channels called tubules, which are pathways to a tooth’s nerves. When the tubules are exposed, different stimuli can trigger a response. 

Tooth sensitivity can also occur from gum tissue recession, which exposes the tooth’s root. Sudden sensitivity may also occur with deep decay, a damaged filling, a chipped or cracked tooth, or gum disease. Other causes include overly aggressive tooth brushing, grinding your teeth during sleep (bruxism), acidic foods or drinks, or medical conditions that expose teeth to stomach acids, such as bulimia or GERD. 

How Can You Prevent Tooth Sensitivity?

There are some things you can do to prevent sensitive teeth. Maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, to lower the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, two leading causes of tooth sensitivity. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush, limit sugary or acidic foods and drinks, and keep up with routine dental exams and cleanings to treat dental problems as they develop.

How Is Tooth Sensitivity Treated?

If your tooth sensitivity persists, our experienced dentist may recommend one or a combination of the following: 

• Desensitizing Toothpaste: Desensitizing toothpaste can help reduce your tooth sensitivity over time. 
• Fluoride Gel: If you have sensitive teeth due to tooth decay, fluoride treatment can strengthen your tooth enamel, reducing your sensitivity. 
• Dental Sealants: Dental sealants can help protect sensitive areas of your teeth, reducing your discomfort. 
• Dental Bonding: Dental bonding can cover exposed tooth roots, protecting them and relieving your symptoms. 
• Dental Filling or Crown: Treating tooth decay, cavities, chips, cracks, or damaged dental work with a dental filling or crown can relieve tooth sensitivity. 
• Custom Night Guard: If you grind and clench your teeth in your sleep, a custom mouthguard or night guard can prevent further damage to your tooth enamel.
• Gum Grafting: Extensive gum recession may require a gum graft to protect your exposed tooth roots and reduce your tooth pain and discomfort.
• Root Canal Therapy: Root canal therapy removes the nerve of the tooth, eliminating tooth sensitivity when other treatment options don’t provide the needed relief. 

Tooth Sensitivity Treatment Near Me in Shelby Township, MI

If you have tooth sensitivity, contact Roam Dental to schedule a consultation. Dr. Barbu and his exceptional team will work with you to determine the ideal solution for long-term relief. We invite you to call 586-500-ROAM (7626) to schedule your appointment or book one online today! We look forward to caring for all your dental needs.