If the thought of eating your favorite ice cream makes you wince, you likely suffer from tooth sensitivity. Your trusted team at Dr. Rick Dentistry will determine the cause of your discomfort and create a fully customized treatment plan to relieve your symptoms. We're here to support your oral health every step of the way!

What Are the Signs of Tooth Sensitivity?

The most common symptom of tooth sensitivity is a sharp pain in response to eating or drinking something cold. The discomfort can also result from hot, sweet, sour, or acidic foods and drinks, cold air, brushing or flossing your teeth, or using alcohol-based mouthwash. The pain and discomfort are usually immediate but subside soon after removing the trigger. Symptoms of sensitive teeth can be mild or intense and may come and go for no apparent reason.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity typically develops when the enamel wears down or the gums recede, exposing the tooth roots. The discomfort can also result from tooth decay, a cracked or chipped tooth, damaged dental work, or periodontal (gum) disease.

Some habits can also lead to sensitive teeth, including brushing your teeth over-zealously and using a hard-bristled toothbrush. That's because these practices cause gum recession, a leading cause of tooth sensitivity. Grinding and clenching your teeth during sleep, a condition called bruxism, can also exacerbate your tooth sensitivity by causing tooth wear.

Sensitive teeth can result from excessive exposure to acidic foods and beverages, which erode the enamel and expose the dentin. Some medical conditions can also expose your teeth to acids, such as gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) or bulimia.

How Can You Help Reduce Tooth Sensitivity?

There are some things you can do to help reduce your tooth sensitivity. Make sure you maintain proper oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, to lower your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease. When you brush your teeth, do so gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent gum recession.

How Is Tooth Sensitivity Treated?

If your tooth sensitivity persists, your trusted team at Dr. Rick Dentistry is here to help. We will evaluate your condition, determine the cause of your tooth pain discomfort, and recommend your best treatment options.

Dr. Rick may recommend one or a combination of the following treatments:

• Restorative Dentistry: Treating any cavities, chips, or cracks along with any damaged restorations will help provide relief.
• Dental Bonding: Applying dental bonding to exposed tooth roots can help protect the tooth and relieve the symptoms of tooth sensitivity.
• Fluoride Gel: If decay is causing your sensitivity, fluoride treatments can reduce your discomfort by strengthening the tooth enamel.
• Custom Night Guard: Rick may recommend a custom oral appliance called a night guard to prevent tooth wear from grinding and clenching.
• Gum Graft: If you've suffered extensive gum recession, a gum graft will protect your exposed tooth roots and reduce your pain and discomfort.
• Root Canal Therapy: Root canal therapy is the most effective treatment that eliminates sensitivity when all other treatment options don't help.
• Treating Health Conditions: If you have underlying medical concerns causing tooth wear, Dr. Rick may refer you to your primary care physician for an evaluation.

Tooth Sensitivity Treatment Near Me

Visit Dr. Rick's dental practice in Scottsdale, AZ, to learn more about treating tooth sensitivity. Dr. Rick and his outstanding team will work with you to determine the best solutions for long-lasting relief. Call us and schedule your appointment today!