At Tooth Matters, we offer specialised treatments for tooth sensitivity, helping you manage discomfort and restore your ability to enjoy hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages without pain. Tooth sensitivity can affect daily life, but with proper care, we can help alleviate your symptoms and address the underlying causes.

What Is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, occurs when the protective layers of your teeth (enamel or cementum) wear down, exposing the softer inner part of the tooth called dentin. This exposes tiny nerve endings, making the teeth highly sensitive to temperature changes, sweet or acidic foods, or even cold air.

Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity:

• Worn enamel due to aggressive brushing or the use of hard-bristled toothbrushes.
• Gum recession, which exposes the roots of the teeth.
• Tooth decay or worn fillings.
• Cracked or fractured teeth, which can expose dentin or the tooth’s pulp.
• Teeth grinding (bruxism), leading to enamel wear.
• Recent dental treatments like whitening or deep cleanings.

Treatment Options for Tooth Sensitivity

At Tooth Matters, our dental team will assess your condition to determine the cause of your sensitivity and recommend a tailored treatment plan, which may include:

1. Desensitizing Toothpaste:
   • Specially formulated toothpaste helps reduce sensitivity over time by blocking pain signals from the tooth’s surface to the nerve. Regular use can provide gradual relief.
2. Fluoride Treatment:
   • Professional fluoride application strengthens the enamel and helps protect your teeth from decay while reducing sensitivity. Fluoride can be applied during a routine cleaning or through a prescribed mouth rinse.
3. Dental Sealants:
   • A protective coating can be applied to the exposed areas of the teeth to shield the dentin from external stimuli, effectively reducing sensitivity.
4. Bonding or Filling Exposed Root Surfaces:
   • If gum recession or enamel erosion is causing sensitivity, applying a bonding material or filling to cover exposed areas can protect the tooth and reduce discomfort.
5. Night Guards for Teeth Grinding:
   • If grinding your teeth is contributing to your sensitivity, a custom-made night guard can protect your teeth from excessive wear, preventing further enamel loss and alleviating sensitivity.
6. Root Canal Therapy:
   • For extreme sensitivity caused by damage to the tooth’s pulp, a root canal may be necessary. This treatment removes the affected tissue inside the tooth, eliminating pain and sensitivity.

When to Seek Treatment for Tooth Sensitivity

If you experience persistent or worsening sensitivity, especially when eating hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods, it’s important to schedule a visit with our dental team. Tooth sensitivity can be a sign of underlying issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, or enamel erosion that require professional care.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

Most treatments for tooth sensitivity can be completed in a single visit, such as fluoride applications or dental bonding. For more complex issues, like gum grafting or root canals, the treatment process may involve multiple appointments, but relief from sensitivity can be immediate or gradual depending on the procedure.

Protecting Your Teeth from Sensitivity

After receiving treatment for sensitivity, it’s important to adopt good oral hygiene practices to maintain your results:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques.
• Avoid acidic foods and beverages that can erode enamel.
• Use desensitizing toothpaste as recommended by your dentist.
• Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and exams.