There are so many things available to relieve the symptoms of sensitive teeth. Or maybe you have friends and family who regularly mention sensitivity when eating meals or ice cream. Unfortunately, many people normalise this discomfort. Which they should not do.

Sensitivity can be easy to ignore for many people. Especially if people around you also share your symptoms and issues. So, it can therefore fall into the background noise, but sensitivity can be an important first warning that can allow early intervention. So, when should you go to your local Dentist Stevenage?

Gum Recession 

As gum tissue recedes, the reduction in the top of the root is exposed. This does not have the protection of an enamel layer. Instead, it has a semi-soft tissue called cementum which is yellow in colour and is softer than dentine. It plays a role in interfacing between the tooth and the gum. If this is the cause of the sensitivity, that discomfort will be focused on the base of your teeth. If it affects the front teeth, you may be able to notice it in a mirror. 

Gum recession can become very serious and result in the loss of teeth. With late treatment involving invasive procedures like gum grafting. Early cases of gum recession can be reversed by lifestyle changes and more effort put into daily oral hygiene. 

Chemically thinned or weakened enamel

Many people consume acidic foods and beverages. Which can be very healthy, such as orange or grapefruit juice. But highly acidic foods and beverages can cause the enamel on your teeth to become thinner. So, it can result in dental sensitivity. This is because receded enamel causes the porous nature of the dentine to come into contact with the mouth. As it is porous, there are microscopic holes that lead the dentine to the centre of the tooth, which is where the nerve or pulp is located. Drinking a cold or hot beverage can then stimulate the nerve, causing discomfort. If this is the case, you should seek treatment to have the microscopic holes covered using either veneers or a fluoride sealant. You could also be prescribed fluoride toothpaste which will aim to remineralize a damaged tooth.

If you notice excessive discomfort when drinking hot or cold beverages, which creates a throbbing sensation, then you need to seek help from your local dental surgery

Decay

Dental decay is another cause of oral sensitivity. It only occurs when a cavity has burrowed into the tooth deep enough to expose the pulp to the air. This can be exceedingly uncomfortable but can be diagnosable by recognising the location. If your sensitivity only occurs on one of your teeth, then this is the most likely issue. If you notice sensitivity occurring on a tooth that has either a filling or crown, then you may need to book a check-up to have this restorative assessed. It may be loose, cracked or may have gone missing

In a similar vein, cracks and chips to the enamel can also cause oral sensitivity. These are typically resolved with a composite filling.