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When your teeth become sensitive, activities such as brushing, drinking, or eating can cause temporary pain. Sensitivity generally occurs when the enamel is worn out. However, tooth sensitivity or discomfort can also occur due to a cavity or a cracked tooth. 

An experienced dentist can identify the source of your tooth sensitivity by examining your teeth for any underlying issues and recommend treatments such as a root canal, surgical gum graft, bonding, and fluoride treatments.

If you are a Greenwood, Indiana resident, our team at Austgen Family Dental can offer you a wide range of solutions to tackle your tooth sensitivity problem.

Treatment Options for Tooth Sensitivity

• Use Desensitizing Toothpaste

Desensitizing toothpaste contains potassium nitrate which blocks pain signals that travel from the nerve to the tooth root and then to your brain. Using this type of toothpaste regularly can block the pain associated with sensitive teeth.

• Fluoride

Tooth enamel can be reinforced and pain can be alleviated by applying fluoride to the sensitive areas of your teeth. A dentist can offer you an in-office fluoride treatment or prescribe at-home fluoride solutions. 

• Bonding

A bonding resin can be applied to the root surfaces that have become exposed to reinforce and protect them, thus reducing sensitivity. 

• Surgical Gum Graft

Sometimes, receding gum tissue can cause tooth sensitivity. In such a scenario, gum tissue can be taken from other places in the mouth and grafted at the affected site. This procedure can offer protection to the exposed roots while reducing tooth sensitivity.

• Root Canal

If you are suffering from severe pain and other treatments are not effective, the dentist may recommend a root canal. This procedure addresses infections in the dental pulp. A root canal is the most successful treatment option for tooth sensitivity caused by an infection.

Tips to Tackle Tooth Sensitivity

There are several things that you can do to tackle tooth sensitivity, such as:

• Brushing teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled brush
• Using fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing daily
• Using a mouthguard if you grind your teeth
• Avoiding acidic food and drinks

If you have any queries related to tooth sensitivity treatments, contact Austgen Family Dental at (317) 885-6400 or visit us at 1405 W County Line Rd Suite A, Greenwood, IN 46142.