Many of us, if only briefly, have experienced the unsettling pain sensitive teeth can bring, perhaps when biting into something cold. However, for some, sensitive teeth can be distressing, making everyday activities like eating and drinking uncomfortable. Join The Reef Dental Centre as we help you understand the causes and remedies for sensitive teeth, enabling you to manage the condition effectively.
Understanding Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive teeth occur when the underlying layer of your teeth, called dentin, becomes exposed. Dentin contains microscopic tubules that connect to the nerves in your teeth. When these tubules are exposed to external stimuli such as hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, they transmit sensations directly to the nerves, causing pain or discomfort.
It’s a frustrating and painful condition that affects many Australians. Whether enjoying a cool drink or a hot beverage, sensitive teeth can make simple pleasures uncomfortable. This guide aims to provide comprehensive information to help those who are suffering deal with the problem.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Several factors contribute to tooth sensitivity:
- Brushing Technique: Brushing too vigorously or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel over time, exposing the dentin underneath.
- Gum Recession: Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) or aggressive brushing habits can cause gums to recede, exposing the tooth roots and dentin to external stimuli.
- Dental Procedures: Some dental treatments, such as teeth whitening, dental fillings, and crowns, can temporarily increase tooth sensitivity.
- Dietary Factors: Consumption of highly acidic foods and drinks (like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and soda) can erode tooth enamel over time, leading to sensitivity.
- Medical Conditions: Health issues such as acid reflux (GORD) or eating disorders (e.g., bulimia) that involve frequent exposure to stomach acids can contribute to enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity.
Preventive Measures
Prevention plays a crucial role in managing tooth sensitivity. Key preventive measures include:
- Gentle Oral Care: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently in a circular motion to clean teeth without causing enamel wear. Consider using toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth, containing ingredients like fluoride and potassium nitrate to strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.
- Balanced Diet: Limit consumption of acidic foods and drinks. If you consume them, rinse your mouth with water to neutralise acids and reduce their impact on tooth enamel.
- Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist every six months for check-ups and professional cleanings. Regular dental visits allow for early detection and treatment of dental issues that may lead to sensitivity.
- Mouthguards: If you grind your teeth (bruxism) at night, wearing a custom-fit mouthguard can protect teeth from excessive wear and enamel erosion caused by grinding.
Home Remedies
Several home remedies can help alleviate tooth sensitivity:
- Saltwater Rinse: Rinse your mouth with lukewarm saltwater (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of water) to reduce inflammation and sensitivity. This remedy can also help kill bacteria in the mouth.
- Cloves or Clove Oil: Cloves have natural analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Applying a small amount of clove oil directly to sensitive teeth and gums can temporarily relieve discomfort. Some sources advise diluting 3 to 5 drops of the oil with olive oil before application.
- Desensitising Toothpaste: Use specially formulated for sensitive teeth containing ingredients like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride. These compounds help block pain signals from reaching the nerves in your teeth.
- Oil Pulling: Swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil around in your mouth for 15-20 minutes daily may help reduce bacteria and plaque buildup, which can contribute to tooth sensitivity.
Professional Treatments
When home remedies and preventive measures fall short, your dentist may recommend professional treatments:
Fluoride Gel or Varnish
This treatment is quick and non-invasive, often taking just a few minutes. During a dental visit, your dentist will apply a fluoride gel or varnish directly to the sensitive areas of your teeth. Fluoride strengthens the enamel, the outer protective layer of your teeth. By enhancing the enamel’s resistance to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and dietary sugars, fluoride helps reduce sensitivity. The fluoride gel or varnish blocks the microscopic tubules in the dentin, preventing external stimuli (like hot or cold foods and drinks) from reaching the nerves inside the tooth.
Patients often experience immediate relief after the application. Depending on the severity of sensitivity, your dentist may recommend repeat applications every few months to maintain the protective effect.
Desensitising Agents
These agents are applied to the exposed dentin or tooth roots. The application can be done in a single visit, often as a quick, non-invasive procedure. Desensitising agents commonly used include potassium oxalate, fluoride compounds, and bonding resins.
They work by forming a barrier over the exposed dentin or by occluding (blocking) the microscopic tubules, thereby reducing the transmission of stimuli to the nerves. Agents like potassium nitrate help stabilise the nerve endings inside the teeth, reducing their sensitivity to external triggers. Some patients may experience immediate relief, while others may see a gradual reduction in sensitivity over a few days or weeks.
Dental Bonding
In cases of significant enamel erosion or gum recession, your dentist may apply a bonding resin to the affected areas. The resin is a tooth-coloured material that adheres to the tooth surface. Dental bonding covers and protects exposed dentin or tooth roots, thereby reducing sensitivity. It also restores the tooth’s appearance and functionality.
The tooth surface is roughened slightly to enhance the bonding resin’s adhesion, then the resin is applied, shaped, and hardened using a special light. To prolong the life of the bonding, patients should avoid biting down on hard objects and maintain good oral hygiene.
Surgical Gum Graft
Gum graft surgery is recommended for severe cases of gum recession, where tooth roots are exposed and cause significant sensitivity. During this procedure, tissue (often taken from the roof of your mouth or a donor source) is grafted onto the affected area to cover the exposed roots. The surgical site is then cleaned and prepared, and the graft tissue carefully placed and secured with sutures. Over a few weeks, the graft integrates with the existing gum tissue, providing a protective cover over the exposed roots.
Gum grafting reduces tooth sensitivity, improves the aesthetics of your gum line, and protects against further gum recession. Post-surgery, patients should follow their dentist’s instructions, which may include a soft diet, avoiding strenuous activities, and maintaining gentle oral hygiene practices to ensure proper healing.
Tackling Sensitive Teeth with The Reef Dental Centre
At The Reef Dental Centre, we specialise in providing comprehensive and compassionate care tailored to your unique dental needs. Our expert team utilises the latest technology and proven treatments, ensuring effective and long-lasting relief. With a focus on patient comfort and satisfaction, we are dedicated to helping you enjoy a pain-free smile and the simple joys of eating and drinking. So, contact us today to arrange an appointment.