If you’ve ever felt your ears pop on an airplane or felt the pressure change when diving into a pool, you know firsthand that the atmosphere has quite an impact on the body. The temperature outside is no different! If you’ve ever inhaled Winter air and winced at the funny feeling in your teeth, you’re not alone–you may have sensitive teeth.
The Science Behind Sensitive Teeth
Our teeth contain calcified tissue, called dentin, which rests just underneath our enamel. When exposed to temperature changes, this dentin expands and contracts–sometimes at an alarming rate, and you may feel a sudden toothache.
If you are feeling pain and discomfort in your smile at a frequent rate, you may need to see your family dentist in Lombard. At Brett Blacher DDS we believe no one should live with a dental pain. If you need a root canal, call us at (630) 916-0701 to schedule a consultation for gentle dental care.
Tooth Sensitivity: Know The Cause
Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold foods is common, but the causes range from mild to significant concerns. If you have sensitive teeth, call your dentist. It’s easiest on your health and wallet to care for dental concerns while they are small. Consider the following causes of tooth sensitivity:
- Tooth decay due to a sugary diet or aggressively brushing the teeth
- Jaw clenching or teeth grinding (often at night)
- Teeth whitening, especially with over-the-counter products
- Shrinking gums or gum recession that expose the roots
- Effects of gum disease or periodontitis
Do You Have A Cracked Filling?
A broken or cracked tooth or filling will also introduce major discomfort, as the crack may run all the way to the root of the tooth. Never wait on a dental trauma to worsen over time. A cracked tooth, broken filling or dislodged crown can be easily repaired with professional dental treatment.
How To Treat Sensitive Teeth
One of the easiest ways to encourage healthier teeth is to limit sugary foods and drinks, and wait around an hour before brushing after consuming anything high in acidity. Even plain water with fresh lemon can weaken enamel! Maintain a lighter touch when brushing your teeth, and hold off on continuing with any teeth whitening treatments before consulting with your dentist.
When Sensitive Teeth Need Dental Care
In some instances, your journey to a care-free smile again will require restorative dental care. Dr. Blacher may apply a dental sealant, or coating, to protect your enamel of the teeth. He may also recommend fillings or a dental crown to cover any exposed tooth roots. There are also professional grade desensitizing pastes as well as fluoride gel and special toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth. In some instances you may require treatment for a root canal or cavity.
What Is A Root Canal?
A root canal is the process of carefully removing the infected nerve from the tooth and sealing the tooth with a protective dental filling or dental crown. This relatively simple procedure is an effective means of restoring dental health while preserving the original structure of the teeth. Thankfully, modern root canal therapy is a painless procedure, and you can finish treatment with a healthier, functional and natural looking tooth.
Your Family Dentist in Lombard, Illinois
Treating dental pain such as sensitive teeth may be easier than you think! If you have sensitive teeth, Dr. Brett Blacher and his team are ready to relieve your pain and strengthen the dental health of your smile. Your comfort and oral health is our top priority! Visit our office at 450 E. 22nd St. Ste 201 Lombard, IL, 60148 or give us a call at (630) 916-0701.
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