How your dentist can help your sensitive teeth

As a dentist, one of the most common complaints heard from patients is that of sensitive teeth. Many of us will experience sensitivity at some point in life. It’s a condition that can leave you feeling miserable, as common treats such as a fresh ice cream on a hot summer’s day or a steaming cup of coffee on a winter’s morning bring not comfort but pain. At Danny De Villiers dental practice in Weybridge, we can help get rid of sensitivity for good.
sensitive teethThere are many causes of tooth sensitivity. The first thing your dentist will do when you visit our Weybridge practice is to establish the cause.
What are the common causes of sensitive teeth?
1 Enamel erosion (tooth erosion).
Our teeth are covered by a very strong substance called enamel. This can be eroded by too much sugar or acidic foods in our diet, and once it is lost it will not grow back. Tooth erosion can also occur during pregnancy when morning sickness is a problem, and in patients with eating disorders. What few people know is that it can also be caused by brushing your teeth too vigorously. Your dentist may advise you on a more appropriate tooth-brushing technique to preserve remaining enamel.
2 Cracked teeth
If teeth become cracked, the sensitive dentine inside can be exposed, causing pain on contact with hot or cold food and drinks. Your dentist may repair cracks with fillings, composite bonding, veneers or crowns – we have a wide range of options at our Weybridge dental practice.
3 Big fillings near the nerve of your tooth
Very large fillings near the nerve of your tooth can cause sensitivity. Replacing a metal filling with a composite one, or placing an inlay or onlay, may be an option.
4 Bruxism
This is the term for night-time tooth grinding. Your dentist may prescribe a mouthguard to prevent this problem.