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Do you wince in pain when eating ice cream or even soup? If so, you may have sensitive teeth. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, approximately 45 million Americans experience tooth sensitivity at some point in their lives. Tooth sensitivity is a condition characterized by a tingly feeling or a flash pinch of pain affecting all teeth, certain areas of the teeth, or all of one or more teeth. The pain or discomfort often associated with tooth sensitivity may occur constantly or intermittently. Tooth sensitivity is caused by the movement of fluid within tiny tubes located in the dentin, resulting in nerve irritation. When your hard enamel is worn down or gums have receded, causing tiny tube surfaces to be exposed, pain can be caused by eating or drinking foods or hot and cold beverages, or exposing them to cold air. Exposed areas of the teeth can cause pain and even affect or change your eating, drinking, and breathing habits, so pay close attention to your tooth sensitivity. What You can do for Tooth Sensitivity Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common complaints filed among dental patients, with at least 40 million adults in the United States suffering from it to some degree. Some toothpastes increase tooth sensitivity, especially those that are used to lighten or remove stains from enamel, as well as tartar-control toothpaste containing sodium pyrophosphate. There are toothpastes that are specifically made for people with sensitive teeth, but these products typically need to be used on a regular basis for at least a month before relief is noticed. Additionally, avoid using hard-bristled toothbrushes and brushing your teeth too vigorously. This can wear down the tooth's root surface and expose sensitive spots. If the bristles on your toothbrush are flattened or pointing in multiple directions, you are putting too much pressure on your teeth. Some foods and drinks can also aggravate sensitive teeth and should be avoided, or limited. When Should You Visit a Dentist? Sensitivity in teeth will vary from person to person. Some sensitivity can be characterized by short, sharp pain that is usually initiated by eating hot or cold foods, or with exposure to cold air. If a tooth, or multiple teeth, is extremely sensitive for more than three or four days and reacts to both hot and cold temperatures, it is best to get an evaluation from your dentist to determine the extent of the problem. Many instances of pain can be similar to other conditions; some people might think that a tooth is sensitive when it can actually be a cavity or an abscess that is not visible yet. Be sure to tell your dentist when the pain started and if certain triggers increase the pain. If you are diagnosed with sensitive teeth, your dentist can prescribe a variety of treatment options, including both in-office treatments and take-home products for personal use. As a last resort, if your tooth sensitivity is severe and persistent or cannot be treated by any other means, your dentist may recommend root canal therapy. Consult your dentist in Encino today if you are exhibiting tooth sensitivity. The longer you wait for treatment, the worse your sensitivity may become.
Dr. Matt Zarinnia of Encino Cosmetic Dental Group is a highly-regarded dentist in Encino, CA. Specializing in a full array of cosmetic dental procedures, such as veneers, Lumineers, teeth whitening, orthodontics and dental implants in Encino, Dr. Zarinnia is qualified to handle any dental need.
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