Did you know that the sensations of tooth sensitivity differ by age group? Young adults often report a sharp, short “zing” when consuming a cold food or beverage, while middle-aged adults tend to experience sensitivity when brushing, or when eating sweets or cold foods. The pain lingers longer as we age. Older adults tend to report root-surface sensitivity, as well as dry mouth and discomfort chewing, in addition to pain brought on by cold or hot foods. The good news is, tooth sensitivity is common and treatable.
Partner with the experts at Signature Smile Arts in Homewood, IL, for answers to all of your oral health questions, along with diagnostics and treatments that bring lasting relief. We welcome patients of all ages, so call today to schedule your checkup and cleaning, second opinion visit, or consultation: (708) 799-5353.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Between 12 and 50% of us experience dentin hypersensitivity, or tooth sensitivity. Causes of this condition include but are not limited to:
- Enamel erosion from acidic foods or harsh teeth brushing (use soft bristles)
- Gum recession that exposes teeth roots, which aren’t protected by dental enamel
- Dental issues: cracks, chips, decay
- Old, worn dental work
- Bruxism: clenching and grinding teeth, which often occurs while sleeping
- Use of harsh teeth whitening chemicals
- Post-treatment, like after having a crown placed (temporary discomfort)
- Thin tooth enamel
- Dry mouth
When to See Your Dentist
If ice cream gives you a quick zing of pain, but it doesn’t happen often or regularly, there’s no need to run to the dentist. However, some types of tooth sensitivity, especially recurring and frequent pain, warrant a dental visit for diagnosis and treatment.
If the pain from tooth sensitivity lasts more than just a few seconds and happens regularly, it’s time to call your Homewood dentist at Signature Smile Arts for an exam and consultation.
Or, if your discomfort is triggered by various causes–hot, cold, and sweets, for example–we can help.
And if you notice visible signs of gum recession, make an appointment so that we can assess you for gum disease and treat it before it worsens.
Lastly, if the pain you experience is sharp and intense when biting or chewing, call us.
Your teeth and gums should not hurt, nor should biting and chewing feel uncomfortable.
How Your Homewood Dentist Diagnoses the Cause
Many signs of oral pain are obvious to our dentists. Issues like gum recession, tooth wear, and thin enamel are visible signs we identify during an exam. An X-ray will provide us with a roadmap of the underlying structures we cannot see with the naked eye. In X-rays, we can detect cracks, chips, cavities, as well as issues in the jaw, like abscesses, impactions, and bone health.
The dentist will also check your bite, or occlusion, which is how your upper and lower teeth fit together when your mouth is closed. If your bite is misaligned (malocclusion), correcting the issue could reduce painful issues like tooth wear, crazing (weblike cracks), and general tooth soreness. Some people experience the sensation of a bruised tooth, often due to a single tooth hitting too hard against opposing teeth. This causes the root ligament to develop pressure sensitivity. Whatever the source of your discomfort, we will find it!
Professional Treatment Options for Tooth Sensitivity
- Fluoride treatment – strengthens tooth enamel, performed in office
- Bonding – adds a layer on top of the enamel or on exposed roots
- Desensitizing varnish – performed in office to dull the painful sensations
- Nightguard – deters tooth wear due to clenching and grinding at night (bruxism)
- Restoration – repairs worn or damaged teeth with crowns; can correct some malocclusion
- Braces – if malocclusion, like crowding, causes pressure sensitivity or tooth wear
Schedule Your Appointment at Signature Smile Arts in Homewood, IL
We use our teeth all day, when eating, speaking, and smiling. If teeth become painful due to dentin hypersensitivity, tooth wear, or gum recession, you won’t feel like your best self! Call the compassionate and respected dentists at Signature Smile Arts in Homewood, IL, today to reserve your personal consultation: (708) 799-5353, or book online here. The dentist will examine your mouth and records, talk with you about your concerns, and lead you to a path of comfortable oral function and gorgeous smiles.
