We’re gonna talk about something today that you may or may not have experienced, but most people experience it at least once in their lifetime. It’s that really uncomfortable feeling that makes you make a terrible face. If you eat something cold like ice cream, or drink something like ice water, or even something hot like coffee, and you get that kind of zinger in your tooth. It’s sensitivity is what we’re talking about today.
In a healthy tooth, the enamel covers the crown of the tooth. That’s the part of the tooth that you can see. Enamel is a very hard structure and when the enamel is intact, typically you don’t have sensitivity. However, if the enamel is worn for some reason, it could be worn enamel from clenching or grinding. It could be a cavity, gum disease, or even recession.
The second layer of the tooth, the dentin, can be exposed and when the dentin is exposed to hot, cold, sticky, or sweet, it can cause real sensitivity and trauma to the nerve of the tooth. Other times, the cementum of the tooth, which is the covering of the root surface, can be exposed from recession or a root cavity and that can also cause sensitivity.
The good news is sensitivity can be treated. It may be as simple as using a desensitizing toothpaste or a sensitizing option that we can apply here in the office. When you come in for your regular six month appointment, just ask your dental hygienist or myself about dental sensitivity and what you can do about it.
If you wince when that ice cream hits your tooth or you feel a sharp jolt of pain every time you enjoy that hot chocolate this season don’t just brush it off. Your smile deserves better than ouch. Reach out. Let us help you fight sensitivity. This has been the Dental Minute at Rowland Family Dentistry!