At Stallings Dental in St. Louis, Missouri, we understand that tooth sensitivity can be more than just a minor annoyance—it can affect your quality of life. Many of our patients experience discomfort when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or very acidic foods and drinks. This sensitivity is often due to exposed nerve endings in the dentin of the teeth. Fortunately, there are several effective remedies and strategies for managing and preventing this common dental issue. Let’s explore how you can tackle tooth sensitivity and enjoy your favorite foods and drinks without discomfort.

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity, or “dentin hypersensitivity,” occurs when the enamel that protects our teeth gets thinner, or when gum recession happens, exposing the underlying surface, the dentin, reducing the protection the gums and enamel provide to the tooth and root.

Common Causes:

• Worn tooth enamel from using a hard toothbrush or from brushing too aggressively.
• Tooth erosion due to highly acidic foods and beverages.
• Gum recession that leaves your root surface exposed.
• Grinding your teeth at night which can wear down enamel.

Remedies for Tooth Sensitivity

Use a Desensitizing Toothpaste

Desensitizing toothpastes contain compounds that help block transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve, and they typically require several applications before the sensitivity is reduced. At Stallings Dental, we often recommend brands that have been clinically proven to reduce sensitivity.

Change Your Toothbrush

Switching to a toothbrush with softer bristles can help prevent further harm to your gums and dentin, especially if you tend to brush vigorously. We can show you the best brushing techniques to gently clean your teeth.

Consider a Fluoride Application

We may also apply fluoride to the sensitive areas of your teeth to strengthen enamel and reduce pain. This treatment is usually done during a regular dental visit to Stallings Dental.

Get a Mouthguard

If your sensitivity is due to teeth grinding (bruxism), wearing a mouthguard at night can help reduce sensitivity. Custom-made mouthguards from your dentist offer the best fit and protection.

Prevention Strategies

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

This is the best way to ensure your enamel remains strong and your gums healthy. Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss daily.

Watch Your Diet

Limit acidic foods and drinks like soda, high citrus fruits, and wine, which can wear down tooth enamel. If you do consume these, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to avoid damaging the enamel further.

Regular Dental Checkups

Visit Stallings Dental every six months for a routine examination and cleaning. We can catch issues that may lead to sensitivity, such as gum disease, and treat them before they become more serious.

Consider Sealants

For some patients, we may recommend sealants—protective coverings applied to the back teeth (molars) which can prevent both decay and sensitivity.

When to See Your Dentist

If your tooth sensitivity is severe and persistent, it could be a sign of a more serious underlying problem, such as a cavity or a cracked tooth. If sensitivity does not decrease after using desensitizing toothpaste or other remedies, make an appointment with us. We may suggest one of the following treatments:

• Bonding: Applying a bonding resin to sensitive root surfaces.
• Root canal: Treating the inside of the affected tooth if tooth sensitivity is severe and persistent.
• Surgical gum graft: If gum tissue has been lost from the root, this will protect the root and reduce sensitivity.

Conclusion

In many cases, tooth sensitivity can be managed with simple solutions such as using a desensitizing toothpaste or changing your brushing habits. However, it’s important to visit Stallings Dental for a checkup if you suddenly develop tooth sensitivity, or if it worsens, as this may be a sign of a more serious condition.

Remember, at Stallings Dental, we are here to help you maintain optimal oral health. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment and let us help you tackle tooth sensitivity head-on. Our team is committed to providing personalized care in a comfortable and welcoming environment.