Teeth sensitivity is no joke; those who have it know how painful it can be and its impact on daily life. We mostly see that the tooth sensitive to cold gives a sharp pain impulse when a cold beverage or food is consumed.
However, sensitivity is not confined to cold only, heat contributes to it too. Some people are found to have issues with hot and not cold items. Reasons are discussed further.
Tooth sensitivity to cold
Cold temperature discomfort is usual among people. Individuals with sensitivity feel an intense sting when they have cold beverages and food.
Causes
Gum recession
Individuals with bad brushing techniques often have receding gums. Their gum line pushes back from its original position exposing the roots underneath. When the cold items hit the sensitive tooth, it sends down a sharp sting throughout.
Enamel erosion
Enamel is the hard white layer that protects the inner parts. Bacteria of the mouth thrive on sugar which liberates acids. Thus, the acidic content of food wears off the enamel exposing inner matter. A combination of bad oral regime with high sugary food intake leads to teeth becoming sensitive.
Crack in the tooth
The crack acts as a road to nerve endings. The items with hot or cold temperatures seep inside, causing immense pain.
Treatment
Avoid cold beverages
They impact directly on the sensitive teeth, letting out a zap of pain. It would be better to bring the temperature down a bit and then consumed.
Soft toothbrush and appropriate technique
Firstly, having a good technique is very important. Avoid vigorous brushing, gentle circular motions are considered best. Secondly, couple your technique with a soft toothbrush for maximum results.
Use of fluoride toothpaste
Fluoride helps in not only protecting the enamel but also rejuvenates it. However, we must understand that the damage caused cannot be fully reversed; fluoride may contribute to remineralization to some extent.
Gum graft
Gum grafting procedure aids in gum recession. This procedure restores the line, reducing sensitivity.
Tooth sensitivity to heat
Sometimes, sharp pain in the sensitive tooth is not caused by cold items but hot ones. Heat sensitivity of teeth marks nerve damage. Inside the second layer dentin, beneath the pulp, resides the nerve of the tooth.
Treatment
Two treatment options are there to get rid of tooth sensitivity to heat
Root canal therapy
Since exposed nerve is the main cause of sensitivity, dentists often advise getting a root canal procedure. They take out the infected pulp and nerves from inside and seal the space after filling it.
Extraction
Extraction is the easiest method to get rid of a sensitive tooth. It may be simple or surgical.
Simple method is applied on the tooth which is well above the surface. surgical intervention becomes necessary when the tooth is either fully or partially inside the gums.
Lifestyle changes can easily help manage your tooth sensitive to cold or hot. After all, sensitivity should not deprive one from having their favorite items.
If your teeth have developed sensitivity, then it’s best to contact Friendswood Smiles Orthodontics and General Dentistry to guide you. Call 832 895 1905 for details.