Teeth sensitivity can be very annoying. It is a common symptom and has several possible causes that can be attributed to it. Every year, thousands of patients approach their dentist Meadowbank to treat teeth sensitivity issues. This article will discuss why your teeth become sensitive and what you should do about them.
Teeth sensitivity, like tooth decay and tooth erosion, is when nerve endings within teeth and gums become exposed. These nerves can be exposed for several reasons:
- Decay – Tooth decay (tooth cavities ) occurs when bacteria in your mouth react with food particles to produce acids that break down the enamel and dentin. As this damage occurs, nerves are exposed more and more.
- Trauma – If there is a crack or chip in your tooth’s surface, some of the nerve endings can come into contact with your mouth’s acidic compounds, which cause them to feel pain. This type of trauma is sometimes referred to as dental hypersensitivity.
- Surface Alterations – If you grind your teeth (bruxism), the enamel and/or dentin can chip, which exposes nerves. This type of damage to exposed nerves is often called occlusal sensitivity.
How long does it take for my teeth to recover from sensitivity?
If you have a very mild case of teeth sensitivity, it can take anywhere from one to three days to subside. More severe cases can last up to two weeks or more, depending on how much damage has occurred. Talk to your dentist if the sensitivity doesn’t go away.
What are some ways to treat teeth sensitivity?
There are many different ways to resolve teeth sensitivities – the only way to find out what’s suitable for you is by visiting your dentist or dental hygienist. Some remedies that people try include: toothpaste, mouth rinses, changing your diet, avoiding particular food groups, taking medications, etc.
Can teeth sensitivity be prevented?
Prevention from teeth sensitivities from occurring depends on the reason that your nerves are exposed in the first place:
- Decay – You can prevent decay by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups.
- Trauma – If you’re at risk for tooth fractures and chips, see your dentist right away if you experience these symptoms.
- Surface Alterations – You can prevent this type of damage by seeing your dentist before you begin teeth grinding or clenching to create a nightguard that prevents the effect.
What dental products help reduce teeth sensitivity?
You can use many different products to reduce teeth sensitivity – the only way to find out what’s suitable for you is by visiting your dentist. In addition to regular brushing and flossing, here are some recommended items: toothpaste with potassium nitrate, toothpaste with potassium citrate, mouth rinses with potassium nitrate, fluoridated mouth rinses, desensitizing toothpaste, desensitizing mouth rinses, diet changes to reduce acidity in your mouth, soft food diets or supplements, medications prescribed by your dentist (like painkillers), tooth protectors like night guards or other over the counter items.
