Gentle Dental Care – Annette Williamson D.D.S.
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Sensitive Teeth
When a spoonful of steaming hot soup or the sip of a frozen drink makes you wince, it's time to see Dr. Williamson. Sensitive teeth can be caused by cavities, fractured teeth, worn tooth enamel or an exposed root.
A healthy layer of enamel, the strongest substance in the body, protects the crown of the tooth while a layer of cementum protects the tooth root under the gum line. Beneath those two layers is the less dense, dentin. When dentin loses its protective covering, nerves in the tooth are exposed to hot, cold and acidic foods.
Pain from sensitive teeth can come and go. Constant pain could be a sign of a more serious problem. It is still important, however, to discuss your symptoms with your dentist to determine the cause and proper treament.
Depending on the diagnosis, Dr. Williamson may recommend one or more of the following treatments to relieve symptoms of sensitive teeth:
• A soft-bristle toothbrush or a powered brush to protect gums
• A flouride rinse or gel for sensitive teeth, prescribed by Dr. Williamson
• A desensitizing toothpaste, like Crest Sensitivy Protection