Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive Teeth

If you are waging a constant battle with sensitive teeth and live in the San Ramon area, Dr. Carol Jin can help reduce or eliminate the painful sensations associated with tooth sensitivity. Dr. Carol Jin provides quality, comfortable dentistry that places an emphasis on gentle techniques.

How To Reduce Painful Sensations

There are several effective ways to treat the pain caused by hot and cold temperatures that do not involve going to the dentist. One way is to start brushing with a soft bristled brush to avoid tearing away gum tissue. It is also important to start brushing and flossing with regularity. The Lack of consistent oral hygiene helps the plaque that inflames your gum line and causes gum disease, making your nerve center more vulnerable. Avoiding excessively acidic food and drink can contribute to reducing sensitivity, along with the use of a fluoride-based toothpaste and mouth rinse. Fluoride has been shown to safeguard the soft underlying surface that covers your nerves. You can also purchase over-the-counter toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.

What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

When the dentin or underlying layer of your teeth, becomes exposed your tooth’s nerve center becomes less protected from hot and cold temperatures. This happens at both the gum line and the chewing surface of a tooth. Exposure of the dentin can be caused by various factors – either individually or combined. The ingredients in tooth whitening and tartar-control toothpastes may increase your tooth sensitivity because of their abrasive quality. Worn enamel can result from teeth grinding or rough brushing habits because the enamel becomes stripped, allowing the heat and cold to easily penetrate your teeth. Another cause is gum disease, which inflames the gums and exposes roots. Tooth decay or any cracks in the enamel may expose the sensitive sub-surface and over-stimulate your nerves.

Having regular checkups and teeth cleanings can help mitigate these issues before they become worse – or better yet, prevent tooth sensitivity before it ever starts.

How Can We Help?

If your tooth sensitivity persists and you find yourself not able to enjoy some of the things you used to, Dr. Carol Jin can help. If your problem is the result of decay or some other structural flaw, a composite filling or bonding can help restore your tooth’s ability to protect the dentin. Dr. Jin can also provide fluoride treatments for the exposed root if your at-home fluoride treatment is not working, or it is too much trouble to remember to do on your own. For people who suffer from severe gum retraction, a surgical gum graft will help restore the gums where they have been eroded. If you are ready to eliminate tooth sensitivity, call Dr. Jin for an appointment to discuss your options.