Do you avoid coffee or cold treats because your teeth will suffer?  Tooth sensitivity can be caused by any of the following:

  • tooth decay;
  • fractured teeth;
  • older fillings;
  • worn tooth enamel;
  • exposed tooth root;
  • gum disease.

Be sure to make an appointment with your dentist to determine the cause of your discomfort. Delayed treatment could cause the situation to worsen, which can also make it more expensive to treat.

The cure could be as simple as using a special desensitizing toothpaste such as Sensodyne. An in-office fluoride treatment may also offer relief. Both strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the painful sensation.

Crowns, inlays or bonding offer the solution for sensitivity caused by decay. Surgical gum grafts can protect the root and reduce pain when the problem is caused by gum tissue receding from the tooth root.  A root canal may be recommended if pain is severe and other treatments have been ineffective.

There’s no reason to live with sensitive teeth. See your dentist and you’ll be ordering a double scoop of ice cream soon.