What is tooth sensitivity?
It is a sharp shooting pain felt on a particular tooth or teeth causing discomfort while taking hot/cold foods
Causes include:
1.Tooth decay
2.Wearing of enamel in case of fractured teeth
3.Worn fillings
4.Wearing of cementum and exposed tooth root
5.Acidic foods and beverages
6. Incorrect brushing techniques
7.Clenching/grinding the teeth
How will I find that I have tooth sensitivity?
If hot/cold foods, sweet, acidic foods/drinks, breathing in cold air makes the tooth sensitive/ painful then it is indicative of tooth sensitivity
Treatments for sensitive teeth:
There are variety of treatments depending on the cause for sensitivity
1.Desensitising tooth paste
2.Fluoride gel application
3.Surgical grafting techniques
4.Filling / Root canal treatment
Daily care for a sensitive teeth :
1.Brush and floss regularly
2.Don’t brush too hard/too often
3.Use a softer tooth brush
4.Use desensitizing toothpaste twice a day
5.Change your tooth brush once in three months
How to prevent tooth sensitivity?
1.Brush twice daily not exceeding 2 mins
2.Use tooth paste that does not have high abrasive content
3.Floss once a day
4.Diet low in acidic foods and drinks