What Causes My Tooth Sensitivity?

tooth sensitivity treatment in Monroe NCDo your teeth hurt when you take a bite of a hot meal or bite into an ice pop? Do you feel a sharp pain in your teeth when switching from hot to cold foods or beverages? If the answer is yes, you may have sensitive teeth. Sensitive teeth can be treated by your dentist and should not be ignored, as the sensitivity of the teeth may be an indicator of a more complex oral health concern. Monroe, NC dentist Dr. Leonard Hess offers treatment options to reduce sensitivity and to address additional oral health concerns for better oral health.

What Causes My Tooth Sensitivity?

Before we figure out how to treat your sensitive teeth, it is important to understand why your teeth may be feeling so sensitive. Our teeth have a center made of a material we call dentin. Dentin is packed full with tiny nerve endings. Your tooth enamel, the outermost layer of your tooth, protects this dentin layer. When the enamel wears away and becomes too thin, the dentin is exposed, leaving your nerve endings exposed to temperature and pressure changes.

Throughout our lives, tooth enamel will wear away for a variety of different reasons. Tooth decay, wear from grinding your teeth, or enamel erosion from a diet high in acidic or sugary foods and beverage can all wear away the enamel of your teeth.

Gum recession is another common cause for tooth sensitivity. Gum disease can cause the gum line to recede leaving the root exposed. Tooth roots are highly sensitive and can be very painful if left exposed.

If you have just had a dental treatment completed, you may also experience temporary sensitivity. Sensitivity as a result of a dental filling or other dental treatment is highly common but should dissipate within a day or two after treatment.

How Can I Reduce the Sensitivity in My Teeth?

So, what can you and Dr. Hess do to reduce the pain associated with sensitive teeth? Every patient comes to our Monroe dentist office with a unique set of dental concerns and oral health needs. Our dental care team will take the time to conduct a thorough oral health exam and spend time listening to each patient’s specific dental health concerns. Drs. Hess will work with you to build an individualized dental treatment plan that will address the cause of tooth sensitivity.

There are over the counter products that may help reduce sensitivity. Toothpaste and mouthwashes marketed to reduce sensitivity help block the sensitivity sensation. Though some patients may find some relief from these products, we encourage visiting our Monroe dentist office to find the cause and proper treatment for your tooth sensitivity.

Dental crowns can be used to treat a sensitive tooth. Drs. Hess offers custom fit dental crowns. Using the latest in dental materials dental crowns look realistic and feel comfortable. Dental crowns are a durable and lasting dental treatment that can be cared for and used like a natural tooth. For tooth sensitivity caused by periodontal disease, Dr. Hess offers a full range of periodontal therapy treatment options to restore the gums and reduce sensitivity.

Schedule An Appointment

If you are experiencing sensitivity in your teeth, or have questions about any oral health concerns, Contact our Monroe, NC dentist office. Our compassionate team will be happy to assist you and schedule your appointment.