All You Need to Know About Extreme Tooth Sensitivity

What to do when you notice signs of tooth sensitivity? Is there any possible way to deal with the situation? In the majority of cases, this is not a serious problem, and your dentist will be able to recommend a couple of viable treatment options. 

But before you start searching for general dentistry near you, there are a couple of things you should know about this condition, what it represents, and ways to deal with it before it’s too late. 

What Is Tooth Sensitivity and Potential Symptoms

Tooth sensitivity is easy to spot. A person with sensitive teeth will have problems with simple everyday activities. They will be unable to brush their teeth, eat food, or drink, all of which will cause pain and discomfort. 

But the main problem with teeth sensitivity is that it might happen for so many reasons. The actual root of the problem is not something you will be able to discover on your own, though, so a trip to the dentist is a must. Not to mention that the treatment will also depend on the cause. 

There are several reasons why you might experience tooth pain. In the majority of cases, tooth decay is the main issue. As the enamel wears out on the tooth surface, bacteria will start reaching the inner layer of the tooth. 

And with dentin getting destroyed, the sensitivity will continue to increase. Finally, the nerve endings will get damaged, which will lead to more pain or even tooth loss.

Possible Causes

One of the main questions is what causes tooth sensitivity in the first place. One of the first things you should know is that intense brushing can lead to tooth sensitivity. That also includes hard-bristled brushes, which can damage the enamel. 

Gum recession can also lead to sensitivity, as well as other gum diseases. If you are unfamiliar with the term, gum recession is a condition where gum tissue moves back and reveals roots. As a result, the exposed teeth will feel sensitive and might be damaged further. 

The next possible cause on the list might be damage to teeth. Most of the time, it means that you will have a cracked tooth, and it can expose the soft tissue in the tooth, leading to increased sensitivity. 

Another way you can damage teeth is by grinding, also known as bruxism. Grinding your teeth can easily destroy enamel and lead to sensitivity, pain, and even tooth loss. Furthermore, using acidic foods and drinks can also damage your teeth.

Finally, tooth cavities, root canals, and even certain products like mouthwash can cause damage and lead to sensitivity to hot or cold. 

Treatment Options

In most cases, addressing tooth sensitivity means addressing the underlying condition. But there are also ways to make the situation a bit more bearable, especially if there is nothing serious happening with your teeth. 

One of the first things you should try is using desensitizing toothpaste. That can be helpful as first aid, and with regular use, it might make the symptoms disappear. Of course, the key is to focus on oral hygiene and ensure that your teeth remain healthy. 

You may also need to try a couple of different brands before you find the one that works for you. You can also use fluoride toothpaste since it is known to protect teeth and eliminate symptoms of discomfort and sensitivity. 

However, desensitizing or bonding might solve the problem if the root is exposed. The process includes applying resin to sensitive surfaces. Furthermore, a gum graft is often necessary for receding gums, especially if the process can’t be reversed without surgery. 

And if nothing is helpful, root canal treatment might be the next step. Removing the nerve will eliminate the pain. Then, the dentist will use the filling or crown to replace the missing part of the tooth. 

Prevention

Prevention is one of the most important things in oral health. And it’s always easier to avoid problems than to have to fix them when they appear. As you already know, the longer you wait, the more problems there will be. 

So, you will need to focus on oral hygiene and ways to avoid tooth sensitivity in the first place. Oral health is also tied to what you eat and drink, and if you avoid eating or drinking acidic foods or drinks, it will help you save enamel. 

But even if you want to have a drink from time to time, you can brush your teeth afterward. Another great option is to use a fluoride gel or toothpaste to avoid further damage. You should also find an appropriate toothbrush. 

Using a soft-bristled toothbrush will make a world of difference. Using one that’s too harsh can easily wear out the enamel on your teeth, worsening the situation. 

What to Do?

As soon as you notice that your teeth are sensitive, you should pay your dentist a visit. That is the only way to avoid the worst-case scenario. Ignoring the symptoms won’t solve anything, and the pain won’t go away if you ignore it — it will only get worse. 

Additionally, the situation can complicate even further and lead to tooth loss and other health problems. You can also talk to your dentist and see what the best treatment option they would suggest is. 

It is also possible that there is no underlying problem with your teeth at all. That means you won’t need to do anything except continue with your standard dental care. But still, the only way to know what is happening is to see a professional. 

In short, it is crucial to have regular checkups (every six months) since the dentist will be able to spot early signs of any problem. And as a result, treat it before you even notice symptoms.

General Dentistry Services in Skokie, IL

In the majority of cases, tooth sensitivity is something that can be solved by general dentistry. And if you live in Skokie, Illinois, you can always visit Dental Matters. The experienced team will be able to help you get rid of tooth sensitivity and avoid further complications. 

You can also get dental crowns, fillings, bridges, and anything else that will help your teeth stay healthy. Instead of waiting for the situation to get worse, start working on your oral health today!