Everything about tooth sensitivity!

Sensitive teeth can be a burden for many people and are caused by a variety of factors. Many people that suffer from sensitive teeth have a constant fear of severe pain, and therefore avoid certain food, drinks, and sometimes, avoid brushing their teeth.

If you are exhibiting any signs or symptoms of tooth sensitivity, visit your dental professional immediately for a proper assessment. We can help you!

What is tooth sensitivity?

Sensitivity occurs when the dentin, a porous tissue in your teeth, becomes exposed. The dentin contains microscopic pathways to the nerve, so when exposed it causes pain. The nerves are more easily triggered by certain stimuli causing tooth sensitivity.

This may present itself as a shooting pain in your teeth when eating or drinking something hot.

What causes it?

There are several causes of sensitivity:

Principally, it is a symptom of receding gum tissue or enamel loss. 

• Over brushing: when done so with too much force or with a hard-bristle toothbrush, brushing can remove tooth enamel causing tooth sensitivity 
• Tooth grinding: visit our web page for further info!
• Dental cleanings and treatments: a period following a large treatment, your teeth can feel sensitive. If this prevails for longer than expected, get back in touch with your dentist.
• Gum disease: visit our web page for further info!

Treatment: what are my options?

It is always important to seek advice from a dental professional so that the source of the problem can be identified and treated. They can look at the health of your teeth and check for potential problems like cavities, loose fillings, or recessed gums that could be causing the sensitivity. Your dentist can do this during your routine dental cleaning.

In most cases, sensitive teeth can be treated by simply making a change to your daily oral hygiene routine. Such as:

• Use toothpaste made specifically for sensitive teeth
• Convert to alcohol free mouth wash
• Change to a softer toothbrush

If none of these changes alleviate the pain, talk to your dentist about prescription toothpaste and mouthwash before the enamel is worn down further and damages the teeth.

Our dental team can not only effectively treat tooth sensitivity, but also prevent it. All of our dental practices adopt a preventative focus to help you avoid the development of tooth decay and pain in the first place. Make sure you book regular dental check-ups with our team!