Do you experience periodic (or even systemic) sharp, shooting oral pain or the occasional brain freeze when drinking something cold or hot? This sensitivity is linked to various causes that include cavities, gum diseases, exposed tooth root or worn out fillings. If you experience this frustrating and painful ailment when you drink cold drinks, eat ice cream, or sip hot coffee, know that this dental condition can be treated by your dentist.
We’ll discuss the most common cause which is an abnormality related to dentin. Dentin is the enamel that protects the underlying soft layer of the tooth. Cavities, cracked teeth, gum recession, enamel and root erosion are all conditions that eliminates dentin to the point that the soft/sensitive part of the tooth is exposed to heat and cold. This leads to hypersensitivity which can cause severe pain and discomfort.
Oyster Point Dentistry in Newport News, VA recommends the following dental treatment options:
- Desensitizing toothpaste. Desensitizing toothpaste can help block pain associated with sensitive teeth. It is available over-the-counter but it is best to ask for Dentist's recommendation as to what product may work best for your condition.
- Fluoride. Application of fluoride can help reduce pain and strengthen your enamel.
- Desensitizing or bonding. Application of bonding resin can treat exposed root surfaces.
- Surgical gum graft. This dental procedure aims to take a small amount of gum tissue from some part of your oral cavity and append to the site where tooth root has lost gum tissue. This treats exposed root issue and hypersensitivity.
- Root canal. If other treatment fails, root canal is the next ideal treatment. This treats the problem in the tooth's dental pulp. It's most successful surgical procedure for treating tooth sensitivity.
For an more detailed consult regarding any dental treatment or ailment that you might have, contact Oyster Point Dentistry.
