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What Causes Sensitive Teeth, and How Can This Be Treated?


A woman suffers from pain when her teeth react to a hot drink.

Are you looking for effective treatment for sensitive teeth in Prince George? Wilczek Dental Group can help! We understand that tooth sensitivity is not only a source of pain and discomfort but can also very quickly become a recurring inconvenience in your daily life.

 

In this blog post, we are going to explain some of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity and list some of the treatments that may be available to you. We will also give you some tips on things that you can do at home to help soothe your sensitive teeth.

 

Causes of Sensitive Teeth

Here are some of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity:

 

  1. Damaged Enamel – If you usually brush your teeth rigorously, or you tend to use toothbrushes with firm bristles, over time, this may lead to the gradual erosion of the enamel. This can progressively expose the underlying dentin, which in turn can lead to tooth sensitivity. Tooth enamel can also naturally wear down over time as we age.

 

  1. Chipped or Broken Teeth – Broken or chipped teeth increase the exposure of the tooth pulp to heat, cold, and plaque-carrying germs. This can cause irritation, as well as pain.

 

  1. Acidic Foods – Acidic foods and beverages such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and tea, can also gradually damage the enamel, which can lead to tooth sensitivity.

 

  1. Receding Gums – Gum recession refers to when the gum line recedes from the teeth, which causes the roots of the teeth to be exposed. The causes of gum recession include aging and natural genetic predisposition.

 

  1. Plaque and tartar – The presence of plaque and tartar can also cause dental root sensitivity.

 

  1. Teeth Clenching – Frequent teeth clenching and grinding, during sleep for instance, can cause enamel erosion and cause the dentin to be exposed.

 

  1. Teeth Whitening Products – The chemicals used in those products are also a common cause of enamel erosion.

 

How to Prevent the Occurrence of Sensitive Teeth

Here are some easy things that you can do to prevent tooth sensitivity:

  • Use a softer toothbrush.

  • Avoid acidic foods.

  • Maintain proper dental hygiene.

  • Use a mouth guard to avoid teeth clenching or grinding.

  • Use dental products that contain fluoride.

  • Visit your dentist regularly.

 

Treatments for Sensitive Teeth

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, it is important to book an appointment with your dentist. They will be able to identify the source of the issue, and therefore recommend an appropriate treatment.

 

One common treatment is dental bonding, where the exposed root surfaces are covered. Dental sealants can also be applied to reduce pain. Your dentist will also recommend using specific types of toothpaste and applying either fluoride varnish or fluoridated toothpaste to the exposed root surface to shield the nerves from pain stimulants.

 

Professional Dental Treatment for Sensitive Teeth in Prince George

The Wilczek Dental Group provides family-friendly dentistry services for patients of all ages, from children to elders. From tooth sensitivity to more complex dental procedures such as root canal surgery and orthodontics solutions, our dentists are here to assist you with care.

 

Contact us today to learn more about our dental services or to book an appointment with us in Prince George. 


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