Sensitive Teeth

Proper oral hygiene and a daily routine that includes brushing and flossing is the key to preventing tooth sensitivity and pain. If you experience tooth pain when consuming hot or cold food and drinks, there are several causes that your dentist will examine.
 

What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

Sensitive teeth can be caused by any of the following:

• Tooth decay
• A worn or broken tooth filling
• Deteriorating or worn tooth enamel
• Teeth grinding or clinching habits
• Fractured teeth
• Gum disease
• An exposed tooth root surface
• Excessive or improper teeth whitening
   

Treatment for Sensitive Teeth

If you’re experiencing tooth pain, your dentist can diagnose your sensitive teeth and find the appropriate treatment plan. 

Treatment for sensitive teeth many include the following:

• Toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Desensitizing toothpaste blocks the transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve, reducing tooth sensitivity
• Fluoride gel. Applied during a dental visit, fluoride gel strengthens tooth enamel, which can reduce the transmission of sensations
• Dental crowns, inlays or bonding. These can be used to repair a flaw in your tooth that’s causing the painful sensitivity
• Surgical tissue graft. If you’ve lost gum tissue from the root, this will protect the root and reduce sensitivity. Learn more about periodontics
• Root canal therapy. If you experience persistent tooth pain that’s not simply caused by hot or cold food, you may need a root canal