To the uninitiated, a cold ice cream cone or a sip of hot coffee shouldn’t be anything more than a delightful treat. Yet for many, these simple pleasures can cause a sharp, fleeting pain. Welcome to the world of sensitive teeth. Here at our dentist in Tooting, we often find patients curiously prodding, “Why does my tooth twinge when I eat or drink something cold or hot?” Understanding the intricate story of sensitive teeth is essential, not just for those suffering from it, but for everyone who wishes to keep their pearly whites in perfect condition.
The secrets behind the pain
The sensation of pain or discomfort in response to certain stimuli isn’t because your teeth have decided to revolt against your love for chilled lemonades. There’s a science behind it. Each tooth, beneath that hard white enamel, houses a softer layer known as dentin. This dentin is riddled with tiny tubules leading to the tooth’s nerve centre, the pulp.
When the protective shields – the enamel or the gums – recede or wear down, these tubules become exposed. Suddenly, cold, heat, sweet, or even acidic foods can agitate the nerves inside the tooth, leading to that short, sharp shock of pain.
Factors that unmask the dentin – unravelling the culprits
– A common refrain we hear in our clinic is, “I brush diligently!” But brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can lead to gum recession, leaving parts of the root exposed.
– Enamel, though robust, isn’t invincible. Sugary and acidic diets, as well as certain health conditions, can erode the enamel, laying the dentin bare.
– Tiny cracks can develop over time, allowing cold or hot substances to seep through and stimulate the nerve.
– A habit many might not even realise they have, grinding can wear down the enamel.
A beacon of hope – how our dental clinic can help
At our dentist in Tooting, I am proud to say we are equipped to offer multiple treatments based on the cause and severity of the sensitivity. Here are some ways we approach this discomforting issue:
-Desensitising toothpaste: Packed with compounds that block the transmission of sensation from the tooth’s surface to its nerve, desensitising toothpaste can often alleviate minor sensitivity.
-Fluoride gel: An in-office technique, we apply fluoride gel to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce pain transmission.
-Dental procedures: For more advanced cases, treatments like a crown, inlay, or bonding might be suggested. Root canals, though a last resort, can effectively treat severe sensitivity if the issue is persistent and cannot be resolved by other means.
Preventing the onset of sensitivity
While our solutions aim at alleviating pain, the adage “prevention is better than cure” stands tall. We advise on avoiding acidic foods, using softer bristled brushes, and not grinding one’s teeth as steps to thwart sensitivity’s onset.
A world without the twinge – envisioning the future
Imagine a future where you no longer have to decline a summer’s cold beverage or a winter’s hot soup, fearing the consequent pain. That is the future we aim for here at our dentist in Tooting. Understanding the intricacies of tooth sensitivity is the first step. Taking proactive measures, seeking timely advice, and adopting recommended treatments will ensure that our shared dream becomes a reality. In the nuanced landscape of dental health, sensitive teeth are but a chapter, albeit a significant one. Visit us, be it out of curiosity, concern, or care. Together, let’s weave a story where every bite and every sip is a testament to healthy, robust teeth.