Sensitive Teeth

Does a sip of iced soda make you want to jump out of your shoes? Or a cup of hot java make you cringe in pain? If you can't enjoy ice cream or soup because intense temperature makes your teeth radiate pain, tooth sensitivity (dentin hypersensitivity) may be to blame.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Your gums serve as a protective shield to the roots of your teeth. When that shield falls below the normal gum line, it exposes the roots below the crown of your tooth, leaving the roots vulnerable to stimuli – the hot and cold foods you eat and drink.

This begs the question, "What can I do to prevent tooth sensitivity?" Various factors contribute to tooth pain, but gum recession is a primary cause. Let's look at what causes gum recession, so we know how to avoid it.

Plaque – If you're not brushing your teeth regularly, plaque will buildup on the roots of your teeth. Plaque causes gum recession, so establishing a better brushing routine can alleviate some of the discomfort. Dr. Allen or our dental hygienist can instruct you on how to effectively brush your teeth.
Brushing Vigorously – People tend to think that the harder they brush, the more plaque they remove. This is not what you want to do! Scrubbing away at teeth can actually do more harm than good. Enamel is susceptible to wear, and harsh brushing can make the gums recede. We recommend using a soft bristle tooth brush and a gentle, thorough brushing style – rolling, light strokes.
Teeth Whitening – Over bleaching your teeth can lead to tooth sensitivity. The bleach can erode the enamel of the teeth. We recommend using dentist-prescribed home whitening for minimal sensitivity and optimal results.
Cracked or Broken Teeth – When patients don't seek dental care for their chipped and broken teeth, problems can quickly arise. The sensitivity may be caused by exposed dentin or a build-up of plaque. Plaque in the damaged area can cause inflammation, thus leading to pain – ouch!
Grinding your Teeth – Stress and anxiety can manifest in strange ways – like teeth grinding. Also called bruxism, teeth grinding causes tooth enamel to wear away, exposing sensitive dentin. Bruxism happens most commonly while a person sleeps, but can happen during the day as well.
Acidic Foods and Beverages - Acids also erode tooth enamel, reducing the buffer between outside stimuli and the nerve of a tooth. Avoiding citrus and carbonated beverages helps. Also, rinsing your mouth with water after drinking or eating may reduce acidity. If acid erosionhas already occurred, a coating of bonding can replace lost tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity. Veneers and crowns are alternatives, as well.
Age – Believe it or not, your age may be to blame for the pain you're experiencing. As we age, our gums begin to recede, exposing the roots which lack the protective enamel.

Reducing Your Risk of Tooth Sensitivity

There are some simple precautionary steps you can take to prevent the horrible pain of tooth sensitivity.

Using a toothbrush with soft bristles, brushing in circular strokes along the gum line.
Eating a healthy, well balanced diet.
Flossing your teeth daily.
Using a desensitizing toothpaste, like Sensodyne.
Attend regular 6-month check-ups and cleanings.

Does Dr. Allen offer desensitizing toothpastes?

Absolutely. He can prescribe one of 3 different prescription toothpastes, depending on your needs.

ClinPro™ 5000 is high-fluoride toothpaste that contains a tri-calcium phosphate ingredient naturally found in saliva. This power-packed toothpaste focuses on stopping the progression of demineralization and allowing for remineralization to happen, thus reducing the sensitivity of your teeth.
Prevident is prescription toothpaste targeted for patients with mild to moderate tooth sensitivity. This leading dental product strengthens teeth and fights tooth decay.
Vanish XT Extended Contact Varnish bonds a powerful barrier to the root surface of the tooth, while relieving sensitivity immediately. The barrier lasts for 6 months delivering fluoride, calcium and phosphate continuously.

An Invitation for Your Family

At our dental office in Pella, Iowa, Dr. Jeffrey Allen provides comfortable dental care to patients of all ages. Call (641) 628-1121 today to schedule a checkup and cleaning, cosmetic consultation, or second-opinion visit.