Top ways on how to ease tooth sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity, or dentin hypersensitivity, is a common dental issue that can cause pain or discomfort when exposed to stimuli like hot or cold. Understanding the cause of tooth sensitivity can help you take appropriate measures and seek timely professional help. There are various causes for tooth sensitivity; based on the cause, the treatment option for easing tooth sensitivity differs. If you are experiencing pain and want to know how to ease tooth sensitivity, keep reading the information provided below by Bangalore Dental Specialists.

What is sensitivity, and how to ease tooth sensitivity?

Teeth sensitivity or dentin hypersensitivity is a condition that occurs when the underlying dentin is exposed. Our teeth comprise three layers; the outermost layer, or the enamel, is the hardest layer that protects the inner layers. Dentin, or the yellow-colored layer beneath the enamel, becomes vulnerable when the enamel wears off. This dentin exposure leads to stimuli like hot or cold to reach the nerve endings, causing pain.

Causes of tooth sensitivity 

Tooth Enamel Erosion

When enamel wears away due to aggressive brushing, acidic foods and drinks, or tooth grinding (bruxism), it exposes the underlying dentin. 

Gum Recession

Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue surrounding the tooth pulls away, exposing the tooth’s root surface. Since the roots are not covered by enamel, they are much more susceptible to sensitivity.  

Tooth Decay

Dental cavities or tooth decay can cause sensitivity, especially when they progress deep into the tooth. 

Acidic Foods and Drinks

Consuming highly acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits, soda, vinegar, and carbonated drinks, can erode enamel over time.  

Age

Your enamel naturally wears down over time as you age. Consequently, older adults are more prone to tooth sensitivity.

How to ease tooth sensitivity

Choose the Right Toothpaste

The most effective way to combat tooth sensitivity is using the right toothpaste. Always opt for toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth. These toothpaste varieties contain ingredients like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride, which help block the nerve pathways that transmit pain signals from the tooth’s surface to the nerve. Make sure to brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush to avoid further enamel erosion. Learn the right way of brushing from our experts at Bangalore Dental Specialists.

Watch Your Diet

Your diet plays a significant role in tooth sensitivity. Avoid consumption of highly acidic food items like citrus fruits, soda, and vinegar. 

Wear a Nightguard

Grinding your teeth while sleeping (a condition known as bruxism) can lead to enamel erosion. Consider wearing a nightguard, a custom-made dental appliance, to protect your teeth from grinding forces. This will reduce sensitivity and prevent other dental issues related to bruxism, such as cracked or chipped teeth.

Visit Your Dentist

We can identify the underlying causes of your sensitivity and recommend appropriate treatments.

Some standard dental procedures for tooth sensitivity

Dental bonding

The bonding agent is applied to the exposed dentin and cured with a special blue light. This acts as a barrier to protect the dentin.

Fluoride treatment

The fluoride application induces the formation of reparative dentin and protection of the underlying dentin by forming a layer on it.

Root canal treatment

When all the other measures have failed to combat tooth sensitivity, RCT is used to manage the pain associated with it effectively. The nerves and vessels are removed from the tooth and filled with an inert filling material.