Dealing with Sensitive Teeth
Dealing with Sensitive Teeth
Dealing with Sensitive Teeth: Tooth Sensitivity is very common and can be very debilitating. Clinically, we sort sensitivity into 2 different kinds:
Reversible: This is sensitivity that stops as soon as the stimulus is removed. For example, cold sensitivity that stops as soon as you swallow the icy drink in your mouth.
Irreversible: This is sensitivity that continues even after the stimulus is removed. For example, soreness that lingers for several minutes after eating or drinking something extra hot or cold.
Once we have decided if the sensitivity is reversible or irreversible, then we can work out the cause of the problem. It is easier to plan a way to treat the sensitivity.
There are several solutions for sensitivity. Some work better than others for different causes of sensitivity.
- One simple and underused solution is to apply sensitive toothpaste as an ointment to sensitive areas. If this hasn’t worked after a week of daily applications, it may be an idea to book in for an emergency appointment with us.
- Ensure you reduce or preferably cease intake of acidic foods and beverages as these often exacerbate tooth sensitivity.
- Avoid whitening toothpastes and medium/hard toothbrushes. These are too abrasive for the gums and teeth and often lead to abrasion and recession.
- Wear your splint if you have one. Clenching and grinding of the teeth are leading causes of tooth sensitivity. Wearing your splint will reduce bruising of the nerve inside the tooth and the ligaments that hold the tooth into the bone. Once the nerve and ligaments are bruised, they remain quite sore for days or even weeks.
- In the meantime, we suggest to “baby” the sensitive tooth a little. Avoid chewing on very hard foods such as ice, bones, and crackling. Avoid extra chewy foods such as chewing gum- frequent bites on a sensitive tooth are only likely to increase sensitivity.
If your sensitive tooth persists, please contact our lovely team here at Grandis Dental. We have clinical solutions for your sensitive teeth, and we are here to help.