The Biting Truth About Tooth Sensitivity

If hot or cold foods and drinks cause pangs of pain around teeth, then you’re probably dealing with tooth sensitivity. It may sound scary and feel even worse, but the problem is extremely common and has many options for treatment. Discover how family dentistry experts recommend facing this aching issue.

Source of Teeth Sensitivity

Healthy teeth are protected by a coat of enamel above the gum line and a layer of cementum below it. Beneath both is a substance called dentin that prevents the heat, cold, and acidity of foods and beverages from reaching the tooth’s nerves. If this dentin recedes, the nerves have no protection from those sensations and the result is the sting of teeth sensitivity. Luckily, sensitivity can be treated by an affordable dentist in South Bend.

Causes for Concern

It’s impossible to ignore tooth sensitivity. There are many causes of this painful problem, but most experts in family dentistry find that these are the most common:

• Tooth decay
• Cavities
• Gum disease
• Chipped or fractured teeth
• Diminishing tooth enamel
• Fillings that have worn over time
• Exposed roots of teeth

Types of Treatment

While there are many different treatment options based on the cause and your case, only an expert in family dentistry can determine the best choice for you. Yet most dentists tend to use these calming cures:

• Desensitizing toothpastes to block pain
• In-office fluoride gel treatments to strengthen tooth enamel
• Crowns or bonding if teeth sensitivity is due to decay or dental concerns
• Surgical gum grafts to cover exposed roots of teeth
• Root canal to soothe severe teeth sensitivity

To learn about our family dentistry practice in South Bend, call The Dental Center of Indiana today or make an appointment.