How to Treat Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a problem that most people encounter in their daily lives but is often seen as unimportant. However, this disorder can negatively affect the lives of many people. It can be really annoying to experience a sudden and sharp feeling of pain when you consume hot or cold food and drinks, are exposed to changes in air temperature, or even while brushing your teeth.
Tooth sensitivity occurs as a result of wear or thinning of the enamel layer, which is the protective layer of the teeth and is located under the tooth enamel. This thinning causes the sensitive inner part of the tooth (dentin) to be more exposed to external factors.
What is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is a sharp and sudden feeling of pain or discomfort that usually occurs after consuming hot, cold, sweet or sour foods and drinks. This condition occurs as a result of damage to the protective layer called enamel that covers the outside of the teeth. Normally, the enamel layer protects the dentin, the more sensitive inner part of the tooth, against external factors. However, when the enamel is worn or damaged, the dentin layer is more exposed to external factors, causing a feeling of sensitivity.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
There may be many reasons for tooth sensitivity. These include:
- Erosion of tooth enamel: Harsh tooth brushing, abrasive toothpastes, or acid erosion of teeth can cause thinning of tooth enamel and sensitivity.
- Gum recession: When the gum recedes, the sensitive root surface of the tooth is exposed, which can lead to sensitivity.
- Tooth decay: Tooth decay, or cavities, can cause tooth pain and sensitivity.
- Teeth clenching or grinding: These habits can damage tooth enamel and cause sensitivity.
- Not going to the dentist regularly: When dental care is neglected, dental problems may progress and sensitivity may occur.
What is Good for Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity treatment and precautions include various methods to alleviate or completely eliminate this discomfort. Here are the effective treatments and precautions for sensitivity:
- Use of Special Toothpaste: Your dentist may recommend toothpastes with special formulas that can help reduce your sensitivity. These toothpastes often contain active ingredients such as fluoride, potassium nitrate or strontium chloride. These ingredients can strengthen tooth enamel or reduce sensitivity by covering the dentin layer.
- Regular Dentist Checkups: Visiting your dentist regularly can help prevent or treat your sensitivity early. The dentist can determine the cause of the sensitivity and recommend appropriate treatment. He or she can also take preventive measures to control your gum health and protect tooth enamel.
- Use of Dental Protective Products: Your dentist may recommend special varnishes or dental protective products that you can apply to protect your teeth. These products can strengthen tooth enamel or reduce sensitivity. Fluoride varnishes, which especially protect tooth enamel, can help reduce sensitivity.
- Using a Soft Toothbrush: Hard tooth brushing can damage tooth enamel and increase sensitivity. Therefore, it is important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Soft bristles do not damage enamel when cleaning teeth and can help reduce sensitivity.
- Paying Attention to Oral Health: Brushing your teeth regularly, flossing, and paying attention to oral health can help prevent tooth sensitivity. Regular oral hygiene is important to reduce plaque buildup and prevent gum disease. Additionally, avoiding acidic or sugary foods and adopting a healthy eating habit can also reduce tooth sensitivity.
Does Tooth Sensitivity Go Away?
In many cases, tooth sensitivity is temporary and can be controlled with appropriate treatment and precautions. For example, using special toothpastes, going for regular dentist checks, using dental protective products and paying attention to oral hygiene can help reduce or eliminate tooth sensitivity. It is also important to follow the treatment plan recommended by the dentist. These treatments may include fluoride applications, enamel coatings and gum treatments.
However, in some cases, tooth sensitivity may be permanent. For example, if there is serious damage to the tooth enamel or if gum recession is advanced, it may be difficult to completely relieve sensitivity. In these cases, it may be possible to keep sensitivity under control and relieve symptoms with treatments and precautions recommended by the dentist.
To summarize; Sensitivity is a problem that may seem minor but can significantly impact quality of life. Fortunately, it is possible to deal with this disorder with effective treatment methods and precautions. Taking care of your dental health and regular dentist check-ups play an important role in preventing tooth sensitivity. Remember that a healthy smile can be the key to your happiness.
