Tooth sensitivity is often the result of exposure to the underlying layers of teeth or the tooth’s root. General dentistry practices offer restorative treatment to deal with sensitive teeth. This article discusses the different types of treatments available to patients with sensitive teeth.
Sensitive teeth can be treated in various ways. The recommended treatment depends on the severity of the sensitivity and its underlying cause. The most common types of general dentistry treatments to deal with sensitive teeth are dental fillings, root canal procedures, dental crowns, composite bonding, fluoride treatments, and gum treatments.
One of the main causes of sensitive teeth is dental cavities (tiny holes in teeth). Cavities can form when the enamel (the outermost layer of teeth) erodes, leaving the underlying layers of teeth and the roots, where nerves and blood vessels are, exposed. A dental filling is used to treat minor cavities that cause sensitivity and other discomforting symptoms.
A root canal procedure is often used for larger cavities that cannot be addressed with a dental filling. Root canals can also treat tooth infections that lead to sensitivity as well. This procedure involves accessing the tooth’s root and removing the decayed or diseased portion of the tooth that is contributing to the sensitivity. The tooth is then thoroughly cleaned and filled with a material called gutta-percha. A dental crown is generally placed after a root canal procedure.
A dental crown, also called a dental cap, covers all sides of a tooth to restore its size and shape and protect it from further harm. This general dentistry restoration is usually recommended to repair a broken tooth, such as a chip or a crack, that leads to tooth sensitivity and other discomforting symptoms. A crown may be placed after a root canal procedure, as well.
Dental bonding is also used for chips and cracks that may lead to tooth sensitivity. This treatment is often used for cosmetic reasons, and the material used closely matches the shade of natural teeth.
Fluoride treatment may be an option for weakened enamel that has not yet eroded. Once enamel loses its strength, it could cause a sensitive feeling, especially when exposed to hot or cold substances or weather. Fluoride strengthens the bond of enamel to prevent decay and relieve sensitive teeth.
Gum erosion and deep gum pockets, which often result from periodontitis, can cause tooth sensitivity. When this occurs, gum treatments may be the best way to cover the tooth’s root and relieve the sensitive feeling, along with preventing other concerns from developing.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentistry Services in Stuart, FL
If you are dealing with sensitive teeth and want to learn about your treatment options, then contact our general dentistry practice today to schedule a visit. We offer a range of treatment options and can put together a long-term prevention plan after restoring the health and appearance of your teeth and gums.
Request an appointment or call Anthony DeLucia D.D.S., P.A. at 772-492-7045 for an appointment in our Stuart office.
Thinking of scheduling a general dentistry visit soon? Read on to learn what questions you should ask at your next appointment. General dentists recommend check-up visits several times per year to check on the status of your oral health and treat any concerns in the earliest stage possible. Check-up visits are also an opportunity for…
Curious about what is considered general dentistry? Read on to learn more. A general dentist can help with the prevention and treatment of oral health concerns such as dental cavities and gum disease. General dentists recommend cleaning and check-up visits once every four to six months to maintain ideal oral hygiene.For most patients, a check-up…
General dentistry offers multiple ways to cure bleeding gums, with many of them being simple solutions. Bleeding gums should not be ignored; they could be caused by something as minor as brushing too aggressively or something as serious as chronic gum disease. A visit to a dentist is in order if your gums often bleed…