Tooth sensitivity can make everyday activities uncomfortable or even painful. Whether your teeth are sensitive to pressure or temperature, eating and talking can be a challenge. Patients with sensitive teeth in Timonium, MD, may need a variety of treatments to help restore and protect their teeth. We can suffer tooth sensitivity for many reasons, and identifying the cause will often dictate the treatment. Your dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth to determine the source of sensitivity before recommending treatment.
Causes and Treatment for Sensitive Teeth in Timonium, MD
Tooth sensitivity could be caused by a variety of reasons. Sometimes, we can have sensitivity in our entire smile. Other times, it’s isolated to one particular spot. Sensitivity can also be constant, or under certain circumstances. If you notice tooth sensitivity, it’s important to make note of when and where you experience it. This can often help your dentist narrow down the possible causes to provide the best treatment possible.
Enamel Loss
In many cases, tooth sensitivity is caused by a loss of enamel. Our teeth are made up of many layers, and enamel is the outermost layer that often protects us from decay and damage. But when the enamel layer wears away, the sensitive dentin layer becomes exposed. While there’s no way to restore lost enamel, you may be able to strengthen what remains. Your dentist will likely recommend using specific toothpaste or mouthwashes that help increase the mineral strength of your teeth. In cases of extreme enamel loss, your dentist may recommend restorative treatment such as dental crowns or veneers.
Decay and Infection
If you notice sensitivity in one location, it’s likely that you have dental decay or an inner infection. Decay can erode your enamel, exposing your tooth to sensitivity. Depending on how widespread or deep the decay goes, you may need different treatments. Smaller cases of decay can often be treated with a dental filling. If the decay is more advanced, however, your dentist may recommend more extensive treatment, such as a dental crown.
If you have an inner infection, however, you may need more invasive treatment. When the inner pulp of our tooth becomes infected, it often swells and pushes against the hard outer casing. This can lead to sharp pain and extreme sensitivity. A root canal is often needed to help alleviate sensitivity and preserve your tooth.
Gum Disease
Gum disease can also cause tooth sensitivity. When your gums are infected, they tend to affect your entire oral health. Swelling and bleeding of the gums can sometimes lead to sensitive teeth. If you notice tooth sensitivity as well as bleeding or inflamed gums, then you may need gum disease treatment.
Tooth sensitivity can lead to discomfort and pain throughout the day, which makes it difficult to focus. However, there could be treatment options available to help. Call our office today at (410) 221-3085 to schedule a consultation and learn more about tooth sensitivity.