Worn tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots can cause painful tooth sensitivity. If left untreated, tooth sensitivity can cause so much pain that the person may no longer want to eat or drink. They may avoid toothpaste and mouthwash that makes the pain worse or may even change the way they breathe to stop air from passing over the affected tooth. Dental pain can be excruciating, so treating sensitivity immediately is crucial to prevent the worsening of the pain.
Your dentist has several techniques available to relieve your tooth sensitivity. Your dentist will begin with the least invasive treatment and recommend additional treatment if necessary.
- Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth
There is both store bought and prescription toothpaste formulated for sensitivity relief. Avoid using pastes that combine sensitivity relief with teeth whitening, enamel strengthening, or cavity prevention. Also, avoid rinsing the mouth after using these pastes. Your dentist or hygienist will tell you exactly what type you need for your specific dental needs.
- Fluoride
Your dentist can apply fluoride directly to the affected tooth to strengthen the enamel and relieve pain associated with sensitivity.
- Mouthguard
If your sensitivity is caused by grinding your teeth, your dentist may recommend you wear a mouthguard while sleeping.
- Surgical Gum Graft
If your sensitivity is caused by loss of gum tissue, healthy gum tissue can be attached to the receding gum line, covering some of the exposed root surfaces.
- Root Canal
In the most severe cases of tooth sensitivity, your dentist will recommend removing the nerve tissue from the tooth entirely. Endodontic therapy can many times remove the sensitivity issues from the tooth.
Don’t ignore tooth sensitivity or avoid the dentist from fear of pain. Putting off dental care will only make the sensitivity and pain worse. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity in Pinellas County, call Piper Family Dentistry at (727) 548-7100 to schedule an appointment today.
Serving the Tampa Bay Area.
Dr. Piper is a General and Cosmetic Dentist who has proudly served Pinellas County since 1993. Both he and his team of professionals provide high quality, gentle dental care in a relaxed, personalized, and caring environment. Treating patients like family sets his practice apart from others.
