(443) 394-2273
In the beginning, you probably didn’t think much of the weird, tingling sensation that would occasionally occur in your mouth. Then it started to get worse. Eating foods you were used to eating became more difficult and drinking your favorite hot tea would be met with major discomfort. Now you don’t know what you can do to relieve this sensitivity. However, according to your dentist in Owings Mills, tooth sensitivity is more common than you think.
While tooth sensitivity is often a common side effect of aging teeth, there are other ways to make it more manageable, as well as treatments to reduce it. Here are just a few your dentist recommends.
Purchase a Desensitizing Toothpaste
Many manufacturers make toothpaste specifically designed to provide relief for sensitive teeth. Many of these toothpastes are also available over-the-counter, so ask your dentist which one may be right for you. After several applications, you should start to feel relief. If not, keep reading.
Ask About Fluoride Treatments
The next time you visit your dentist, ask about their fluoride treatments. Dentists can use professional-grade fluoride only available in the office to treat problems related to tooth sensitivity. In this case, fluoride can be applied to sensitive areas of your mouth to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce pain.
Additionally, your dentist in Owing Mills can also suggest a prescription fluoride for use at home. This form of fluoride is applied using a custom-tray and worth considering if other over-the-counter doesn’t prove to be effective.
Consider Dental Bonding or a Surgical Gum Graft
Tooth sensitivity can occur when the tooth roots become exposed. This usually occurs when tooth enamel has worn down, exposing the many tubules inside the dentin of your teeth. By applying a bonding resin to sensitive root surfaces, your dentist can reduce your sensitivity.
A more significant treatment for tooth sensitivity, especially if the sensitivity is severe, is a surgical gum graft. When the tooth root has lost gum tissue, a small amount of healthy tissue can be sourced from another area of the mouth and attached to the affected site causing sensitivity. This should work to reduce sensitivity by covering the exposed roots.
Ask About Having a Root Canal Done
If none of the following treatments work to reduce your sensitivity, your dentist in Owing Mills may recommend a root canal treatment. This treatment works to remove bacteria and diseased pulp inside the inner tooth.
If you experience tooth pain or sensitivity, particularly when you’re not eating or brushing, a root canal should reduce this discomfort significantly. This is considered the most successful technique for eliminating tooth sensitivity and while it may seem excessive at first, it should make eating your favorite foods and beverages far easier than before.
Don’t let tooth sensitivity ruin your day. Schedule an appointment with your dentist in Owings Mills to seek treatment!
About the Author
Dr. Monica M. Mattson earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine. She’s received many awards for her expertise in dental care and is currently a member of multiple dental organizations. This helps her stay at the forefront of advancements in dentistry. To learn more about her treatments for sensitivity or about her practice, contact her at (443) 394-2273 or visit her website.