Taking Care of Sensitive Teeth

If you are suffering from sensitive teeth – or dentine hypersensitivity – the chances are you haven’t been caring for them properly; you have neglected them to an extent where they hurt when you bite into cold or hot things and cause you a lot of discomfort accordingly. However, there are means of tackling this unfortunate problem. We will look at ways of taking care of sensitive teeth.

Sensitive teeth is a physical feeling when the nerves inside the dentin of the teeth are exposed to different elements; this feeling can range from a slight discomfort to a sharp-shooting pain. The causes for sensitive teeth can vary, and they range from general wear and tear to decaying teeth due to neglect.

A recent study showed that 57 per cent of people suffered – to some degree – from sensitive teeth, with the 30-39 age bracket seems the most instances. Most of these people cited cold things are the reason for the pain, but others mentioned hot and sweet stimuli as well. These figures are a lot higher than had been envisaged by dental experts.

 So what can you do to take care of your sensitive teeth?

 1.    The first thing you should do is discuss the issue with your dentist. Explain your pain, your symptoms, and he should be able to seal the sensitive area with a bonding agent – or a fluoride gel – which can be rubbed into the sensitive teeth and gums after your daily brushings. Over time, this will cure the pain which is observed from sensitive teeth.

2.    Use a tooth-brush with ultra-soft bristles; these can be found in any pharmacy or dental shop. Avoid brushing your teeth in a horizontal method as this exposes the roots more so than with the vertical method.

3.    Your dentist should be able to prescribe you with the most effective toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Some tooth-pastes are specifically produced and customized to deal with the problems of sensitive teeth.

4.    Avoid the things which cause the pain until as such time as the problem has abated and resolved itself. If foods such as ice-lollies, or cold drinks wakes you wince with pain, then avoid them as best you can. Every time you indulge in sweet or sour foods such as candy, acidic foods such as wine and grapefruit juice, chew some sugar-free gum or brush your teeth – when practical to do so – to help the treatment progress. To take care of your sensitive teeth, keep these points in mind.

  Dr. Claudio A. Sorrentino

  www.dentalpalermo.com.ar

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

One common issue patients raise with their dentist is tooth sensitivity. Many experience it without knowing what causes it. In today’s post, we’d like to look at that question.

Often, tooth sensitivity occurs when the gums have receded, leaving tooth roots exposed. Tubules in the roots lead down to the tooth’s nerve. These let stimuli like hot and cold reach the nerve, creating a shock of sensation.

Gum recession is spurred by a variety of factors, including:

Gum Disease

Also known as periodontal disease, this is the primary cause of gum recession. What’s more, it’s been estimated that a majority of American adults have some form of the disease. Gum disease can be treated or prevented through regular oral care at home and regular visits to your local dentist.

Brushing Technique

How you brush can impact your oral health. When you brush aggressively using a hard-bristled toothbrush, you aren’t doing your smile any favors. This kind of brushing can harm your gums and your teeth alike. Brush thoroughly but gently, and ask your doctor for advice on what kind of brush you need.

Teeth Grinding/Cracked Teeth

Also known as bruxism, teeth grinding is a common sign of stress. Over time, grinding will damage teeth, possibly to the point that teeth become cracked. When teeth are cracked, bacteria can gain access to a tooth’s pulp, causing sensitivity. See your dentist about treating your teeth grinding with an oral appliance.

Age

It’s not uncommon for patients between 25 and 30 to experience sensitivity. If that fits your situation, talk to your doctor about what you can do to treat your discomfort.

Is sensitivity putting a damper on your sense of health and wellbeing? Call your local dentist. Sometimes changing hygiene products is all it takes to tooth sensitivity. You don’t have to live with your discomfort. A long-term solution is possible!

  Dr. Claudio A. Sorrentino

  www.dentalpalermo.com.ar

 

Root Canals, nothing to be afraid of…

Of all the terms you hear in a dentist’s office, to most people root canal is probably the scariest. So, what is a root canal? Simply put, a root canal is a treatment to repair and save a badly decayed or infected tooth. A root canal procedure involves removing the nerve and pulp, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and finally sealing the inside of the tooth. Think of it simply as a filling inside the tooth instead of on top of the tooth. Without treatment, the tissue around the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form.

The term “root canal” actually refers to the natural cavity within the center of the tooth. The soft area within the root canal is called the pulp or pulp chamber. The tooth’s nerve is also within the root canal.

Why does pulp and nerve need to be removed?
When a tooth’s pulp or nerve is damaged, it breaks down and bacteria begins to grow within the tooth. The bacteria, along with other decayed debris, can cause an infection, or even an abscessed tooth. An abscess is a puss filled pocket that forms at the ends of the tooth’s roots. In addition to an abscess, an infection in a root canal can also cause:

1. Swelling in the gums, and even spreading to the face, neck, or head.
2. Bone loss around the tip of the root.
3. A hole can be created in the side of the tooth with drainage leaking into the gums and even through the cheek into the skin.

What causes pulp or nerve damage in the first place?

The nerve and/or pulp can become inflamed, irritated, and infected due to several things. The most common causes are deep decay, repeated dental procedures on a single tooth, large fillings, a crack/chip in the tooth, or trauma to the face.

How do you know you need a root canal?

Some of the common signs that a root canal procedure may be needed are:

- Severe toothache when chewing or applying pressure.
- Extended sensitivity or pain to hot or cold temperatures.
- A darkening of the tooth, discoloration.
- Swelling and/or tenderness in the nearby gums.
- A reoccurring pimple on the gums.

How much pain is involved?

Root canals have a long standing reputation of being very painful, but actually most patients compare it to a filling, which is minimal pain.

For a few days after the procedure there may be sensitivity due to natural tissue inflammation, especially if there was pain and infection before the procedure. Most patients control this with simple over-the-counter medications and prescribed antibiotics. Most return to normal activities the next day.

Are there any alternatives?

Saving the natural teeth is always the best option, if possible. The only alternative is to extract the tooth and replace it with either a bridge, implant, or a removable denture to restore chewing function and prevent other teeth from shifting. These alternatives are not only more expensive, but also require more treatment time and additional procedures to adjacent teeth and supporting tissues.

Prevention

Prevention is very simple in theory; brush twice a day, floss at least once a day, and see your dentist regularly. Also, when playing sports, remember to where a mouth guard to avoid trauma.

  Dr. Claudio A. Sorrentino

  www.dentalpalermo.com.ar