Treating Sensitive Teeth

The Role of Regular Dental Check-ups

Most of us will, at some point or another, experience sensitivity in our teeth.

Usually this is temporary and under extremes of hot or cold, but it can also be both persistent and quite uncomfortable.

It may also indicate an underlying problem with your teeth or gums.

Causes of Sensitivity

There are a number of issues that can potentially cause the teeth to be more sensitive than usual. These include the following:

Damaged or Worn Enamel

When the hard enamel surface of our teeth becomes worn or damaged, the softer dentin layer underneath is exposed.

This is porous and therefore any temperature extremes are more likely to be felt via the nerves in our teeth.

Worn and damaged enamel can be caused by too many acidic foods, poor cleaning or even teeth grinding.

Receding Gums

As we get older, many of us will find that our gums recede to some extent, partially exposing the root of our teeth, which have no enamel.

This is likely to cause an increase in sensitivity.

Disease can also cause recession and regular check-ups at our Derby family dental practice will help to identify any issues quickly.

Dental Decay and Cracked/Chipped Teeth

Whilst decay can cause toothache on its own, any hot or cold drinks are likely to exaggerate this sensation, making it even more painful.

Again, any damage to the teeth will expose the dentin and make the teeth more sensitive.

Temporary After Effects of Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are increasingly popular with patients who have badly chipped or stained teeth.

A few patients experience some increase in sensitivity following the procedure but this is typically not a cause for concern and usually passes within a few days.

Prevention

Providing that their teeth and gums remain healthy, most people avoid the discomfort of sensitive teeth.

Whilst much of the responsibility for our teeth lies with the patient, brushing and flossing regularly; scheduled visits to a local dentist such as Darren Bywater in Derby will help to keep oral health in optimum condition.

Through regular check-ups, (six months is recommended), any problems that may cause sensitive teeth can be detected and treated.

Whilst toothpastes designed to help tooth sensitivity can be effective, it is important that the underlying causes of it are treated.

To help prevent gum disease, our dental hygienist will clean your teeth professionally, removing any hardened plaque and helping to restore good oral health.

Where the teeth are chipped or cracked, it may be possible to use dental bonding to make appropriate repairs.In some cases veneers may be used where damage or staining is more pronounced and to deliver a better long term, aesthetic solution.

Whether you already have some tooth sensitivity or simply wish to make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy, we are here to help you.

Simply call the friendly reception team at Darren Bywater’s Dental Practice on 01332 550926 and we will arrange an appointment for you.

Or alternatively visit our website at darrenbywater.co.uk

Thank you!