Sensitive Teeth – What Can I Do To Make Them Feel Better? Sensitivity Relief 101

exposed tooth root and dentin tubulesMany people struggle with sensitive teeth every day. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, more than 40 million adults in the United States suffer at some time from sensitive teeth. What they might not know is why their teeth are sensitive and that there may be an easy solution to getting rid of the tooth sensitivity. Don’t be alarmed if you have a sensitive tooth, it is very common for tooth sensitivity to come and go without any consequences, however, you should see your dentist for an exam to be sure there is not a more serious issue causing the sensitivity.

At Sarasota Dentistry, we take sensitive teeth very seriously and we have a variety of treatment options which have proven to be successful in relieving tooth pain, gum pain and sensitive teeth. See below for a list of causes and cures of teeth sensitivity – even a few at-home remedies that could give you immediate relief.  Don’t let teeth sensitivity ruin your life.

10 Most Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

  • Grinding or clenching your teeth
  • Improper tooth brushing
  • Tooth decay or cavities in the teeth
  • Cracked teeth or a broken tooth
  • Recent dental work such as crowns, fillings or veneers
  • Exposed roots from recession
  • Chemical erosion (Acidic) habits such as sucking on lemons
  • Orthodontic treatment or a shifting tooth
  • Periodontal disease
  • Nerve damage in the tooth

In-Office Treatments for Sensitive Teeth

  • Night guard, NTI, or bite plate to prevent clenching or grinding of the teeth in your sleep. Also known as a TMJ or Occlusal splint
  • Tooth decay may be treated with a crown, filling or sedative filling.
  • Fluoride application – a common first line of defense against sensitive teeth. A varnish is placed on the exposed root surface and remains on the tooth for about 2 hours minimum.
  • Periodontal gum grafts may be indicated to cover exposed roots
  • Root canal therapy may be indicated for irreversible nerve damage to the tooth causing extreme cold sensitivity.
  • Root surfaces may require bonding, crowns or veneers to seal the surface and protect the root.

Home remedies for sensitive teeth and gums that will get you feeling better quickly

  • Avoid excessively cold or hot food or drink!
  • Avoid acidic foods and drinks such as tomatoes, soda or orange juice
  • Try using sensitive tooth paste, such as Sensodyne or Instant Pain Relief by DenTek.
  • Avoid using whitening products. Including whitening mouth wash, tooth paste, gel or white strips.
  • Apply fluoride gel or tooth paste topically and use fluoride mouth rinse such as ACT. If you have a whitening tray, you can use it to better place fluoride gel or paste on the tooth.
  • Clove oil is a natural option for sensitive teeth and gums – soak cotton swab and compress the affected area. You can also rest clove
  • Switch to a soft bristle tooth brush or an electric tooth brush.

Visit Sarasota Dentistry to Treat your Teeth Sensitivity

Dr. Michael and his highly trained dental team have been providing relief for teeth sensitivity since 2001. There is no reason to suffer when there are a number of remedies that will alleviate tooth sensitivity. Call (941) 929-7645 or e-mail us today to schedule a consult with Dr. Hank Michael at Sarasota Dentistry.

Dr. Hank Michael DMD
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