Sensitive Teeth, Brrr!

By AustinDentalSpa on June 15, 2010

Have you ever sipped on a cold beverage and cringed? Have you experienced tings of pain when brushing your teeth? Have you awakened from tooth grinding to be bothered by the chill of your teeth? If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, you may be suffering from sensitive teeth.  Tooth sensitivity affects approximately 45 million people. So, rest assured you are not alone.

Sensitive teeth can affect you if you have gum recession or exposed dentin on your teeth. The condition may also occur if you have tooth enamel loss, plaque, dry mouth syndrome, or gum disease. Cracked or chipped teeth, tooth decay and root nerve damage are other reasons for tooth sensitivity. Tooth whitening may also cause temporary sensitivity. The good news is that there are tasks you can perform to reduce sensitive teeth.

Tips for Sensitive Teeth

• The Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste: You’ll likely to be able to reduce tooth sensitivity by using a soft toothbrush and desensitizing toothpaste.
• Consider Fluoride: You’ll probably benefit from a fluoride mouthwash, gel or varnish which help to remineralize and strengthen the teeth. There are also prescription strength fluoride toothpastes.
• See Your Dentist: Sensitive teeth may be a sign of tooth decay. So, it’s important to see your dentist about tooth sensitivity. Dentists also have in-office desensitizers and sealers that can be painted or sprayed on the teeth, offering an advanced method for managing sensitive teeth. Dentists can also perform bonding to protect tooth surfaces from sensitivity. You may also request prescription strength fluoride toothpaste. General dentistry appointments are highly advantageous for people with sensitive teeth.  In fact, some dentists such as Dr. Mark Sweeney offer sedation dentistry for restorative dentistry procedures that people with sensitive teeth might need.

Sensitive teeth may appear problematic. Yet, the solutions are many. With the right treatment, you need not suffer from sensitive teeth. The first step is to see your dentist so you can rule out oral health issues that require treatment and receive the right treatment for your sensitivity.

If you would like to learn more about sensitive teeth, call Dr. Mark Sweeney, an Austin Texas cosmetic dentist at (512) 452-9296.

Posted in Dentistry FAQ's, Oral Conditions, Restorative Dentistry, Thirty Plus Dentistry