Do you consistently experience a sharp, temporary pain when you drink a cold beverage or eat ice cream? If so, you may have tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity can be the result of several different factors, but it’s important to get proper treatment to alleviate the discomfort. In Bend, Oregon, Dr. Kelley Mingus is your experienced and compassionate dentist, providing a range of options for combating tooth sensitivity.
Below, we’ll discuss the causes of tooth sensitivity and the treatments available with Dr. Mingus in Bend.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
There are several potential causes of tooth sensitivity, though two of the most common culprits are dental cavities and gum recession. Cavities, also known as tooth decay, are essentially holes in the enamel of your teeth. When cavities develop, they can expose the dentin layer beneath, which is filled with tiny nerve endings. This dentin layer is much less dense than enamel, making it easier for extreme temperatures to affect it.
Gum recession occurs when the gums surrounding a tooth pull away from the underlying tooth root and expose the hard, dentin-like exterior. This causes the same nerve irritation as dental cavities, leading to increased tooth sensitivity.
Other potential causes of tooth sensitivity include tooth grinding, cracked teeth, and acid erosion from food and drinks. Periodontal disease, age-related gum disease, and over-zealous brushing can also contribute to tooth sensitivity.
Treatments for Tooth Sensitivity
Dr. Mingus’ dentistry practice in Bend offers a few different treatments to alleviate the discomfort of tooth sensitivity. Toothpaste made specifically for sensitive teeth can help desensitize the teeth while also providing enamel protection. Prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste can help to rebuild enamel and protect against further damage. Professional fluoride treatments can also be performed to strengthen tooth enamel.
Bonding and crowns can be used to cover up exposed roots and repair chips and cracks that may contribute to tooth sensitivity. If gum recession is the cause of tooth sensitivity, Dr. Mingus may recommend gum grafting surgery to correct the issue.
Beyond professional dentistry treatments, there are several things you can do at home to help with tooth sensitivity. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques can help protect enamel and avoid gum recession. Holding off on acidic foods and drinks or consuming them with a straw can reduce acid erosion. If tooth grinding is a problem, you may want to consider wearing a mouth guard designed for teeth clenching while sleeping.
Preventing Tooth Sensitivity
Given the range of potential causes of tooth sensitivity, prevention strategies can vary greatly. Good dental hygiene is key, as it can help reduce the risk of cavities and periodontal disease. Using a fluoride toothpaste and following a proper tooth-brushing regimen can help to protect against tooth decay. Acidic foods and drinks should be consumed in moderation and with caution. Finally, if mild tooth grinding or jaw clenching are the cause of your tooth sensitivity, consider meeting with a doctor to explore anxiety management strategies that can help alleviate these issues.
Get Relief from Tooth Sensitivity with Dr. Mingus in Bend
If you’ve been experiencing persistent tooth sensitivity, now is the time to take action. Dr. Mingus has more than 20 years of experience as a Bend dentist and uses cutting-edge technology to provide top-tier care to all his patients. By taking a personalized and patient-first approach, Dr. Mingus can identify the cause of your tooth sensitivity and develop a treatment plan to alleviate the discomfort.
Don’t let tooth sensitivity interfere with your daily life – schedule an appointment with Dr. Mingus today.