Sensitive teeth can have a negative effect on your daily life, causing you to avoid certain foods and drinks. If you have sensitive teeth, something as simple as eating ice cream can send shooting pain through your tooth. Our Pella dentist understands the discomfort that comes with sensitive teeth that prevents you from enjoying your favorite foods and beverages. Dr. Allen will give some insight into the causes of sensitive teeth and treatments that can help.
Causes of Sensitive Teeth
The cause of sensitive teeth is exposed or nearly exposed dentin. This soft layer on the inside of your tooth surrounds the sensitive pulp center, where the nerves and blood vessels are housed. When the dentin is vulnerable to extreme temperatures, the sensation travels to the pulp center, creating a feeling of toothache. The main causes for this are enamel erosion and tooth root exposure. Some causes of enamel erosion and tooth root exposure include:
- Bruxism, or teeth grinding
- TMJ disorder
- Tooth decay
- Oral piercings
- Gum disease
How to Treat Sensitive Teeth
Since dentin requires a healthy layer of tooth enamel to prevent harsh temperatures from creating pain, the best treatment option is to first diagnose the problem that is causing enamel erosion or root exposure. For teeth grinding and TMJ disorder, oral appliances may keep teeth from wearing down their protective layer. Gum disease treatment can also help gingival tissue heal and reattach to the tooth root. For cavities causing toothache, a simple filling can address most tooth decay. Perhaps one of the best ways to treat tooth sensitivity is to build back tooth enamel. Our Pella dental office offers fluoride treatments to increase mineral strength and protect your teeth not only from hot and cold but also tooth decay and staining.
An Invitation for Your Family
Dr. Jeffrey Allen provides comfortable dental care to patients of all ages. Call (641) 628-1121 today to schedule a checkup and cleaning, cosmetic consultation, or second-opinion visit. We are located on the west side of the historic town square in Pella. IA. Please see themap for directions.