Tooth sensitivity is a common yet disruptive dental concern. The sudden, sharp “zing” when you drink something hot or cold, bite into something sweet, or even breathe cold air can make you worry about your oral health. Fortunately, tooth sensitivity is treatable and often preventable. In Wheaton, IL, Amber Dental has the perfect dentist for sensitive teeth and beyond.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth Suddenly?
Sensitivity out of nowhere can be surprising. Sudden and acute sensitivity typically occurs when the protective layers of the tooth become weakened or exposed. Enamel shields the inner dentin, which contains microscopic tubules connected to the tooth’s nerve. When this dentin becomes exposed, temperature changes and other stimuli can reach that nerve quickly. This can lead to a zipping kind of pain.
Common causes of tooth sensitivity include:
- Enamel erosion from acidic foods and drinks
- Aggressive brushing habits
- Gum recession
- Cracked or damaged teeth
- Teeth grinding
- Recent dental procedures
- Undiagnosed issues such as decay or periodontal disease
If sensitivity starts suddenly, it’s important that you make an appointment with your dentist sooner rather than later.
How Does a Dentist Fix Tooth Sensitivity?
At Amber Dental, our dentist, Dr. Koehne, offers a variety of targeted treatments for tooth sensitivity, depending on the underlying cause. If weakened enamel or exposed dentin is to blame, enamel erosion repair may be necessary with professional-strength fluoride varnish to strengthen it. When gum recession is present, Dr. Koehne may use bonding materials to cover exposed roots and protect them from irritation.
If the sensitivity stems from cracks, damaged restorations, or decay, you may need to have replacement restorations. For persistent or severe cases, you may need additional desensitizing agents that block nerve responses within the dentin tubules. In some instances where sensitivity is caused by inflammation inside the tooth, a root canal may be recommended to provide long-term relief.
What You Can Do at Home
Along with professional care, you can support your sensitive tooth treatment with good daily oral care habits. With a soft-bristled toothbrush, brush your teeth gently to help protect the enamel. Use toothpaste specially formulated for sensitivity, as this can help reduce symptoms over time. Some other changes that can help include limiting the use of whitening products, reducing consumption of acidic foods and beverages, and, if you grind your teeth at night, using a nightguard custom-fitted to your mouth while you sleep.
Find Relief and Protect Your Smile
Tooth sensitivity doesn’t have to be a constant battle. With the right diagnosis and a tailored plan from Dr. Koehne at Amber Dental, you can enjoy your favorite foods and beverages again without pain. If you’re experiencing sudden or ongoing sensitivity, schedule an appointment at our Wheaton, IL, office today. We’ll uncover the cause and create an effective, lasting treatment plan just for you.