Tooth Sensitivity Treatment in Terrace
Many people experience mild to moderate dental pain when their teeth come into contact with hot, cold, sweet or sour substances; this is called dental hypersensitivity. While the irritation is usually instantaneous, in some cases it may last for several moments. Dental hypersensitivity often poses an obstacle to enjoying certain foods or beverages, and can even make cold winter climates more bothersome. At Horizon Dental, we offer tooth sensitivity treatment by qualified professionals in Terrace.
What Causes It?
Dental hypersensitivity can arise out of various situations. Cavities and fractured teeth can cause sensitive teeth. However, when these problems have been ruled out, worn tooth enamel, a cracked tooth or an exposed tooth root may be the cause. A layer of enamel, the strongest substance in the body, protects the crowns of healthy teeth. A layer called cementum protects the tooth root under the gum line. Underneath the enamel and the cementum lies dentin, a less dense part of the tooth that contains tiny tubules, which lead to the tooth’s interior. When the dentin becomes exposed, the tubules transfer heat and cold or acidic or sticky foods to the nerves inside the tooth, causing hypersensitivity and discomfort.
How Can It Be Prevented?
Proper oral hygiene is the key to preventing gums from receding and causing sensitive-tooth pain. Because incorrect and excessive brushing can damage the gums, ask one of our dentists or dental hygienists about tips and advice on your daily oral hygiene routine.
How Can It Be Treated?
The first step to treating tooth sensitivity is understanding its cause. Here, at Horizon Dental, our dentists usually complete different diagnostic tests to determine the source of your hypersensitivity, and then recommend appropriate treatment for the diagnosis.
A common solution to tooth sensitivity is desensitizing toothpaste, which contains compounds that help block transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve. Your dentist or dental hygienist can help you in choosing the right desensitizing toothpaste for your needs.
We also offer our hypersensitivity patients fluoride treatment, which serves to strengthen the tooth’s protective layer, the enamel. If the cause of your sensitivity is gum recession, your dentist can seal off sensitive tooth roots by covering them with a tooth-coloured bonding agent.
In the most severe and persistent cases of hypersensitivity, your dentist may recommend root canal treatment to permanently eliminate the problem.
Treating Tooth Sensitivity
We offer treatment for sensitive teeth to improve your teeth’s function.