Sensitive Teeth Treatment
What is Sensitive Teeth Treatment?
Incorrect brushing techniques, inadequate and improper dental care, the accumulation of decay and tartar on teeth, gum diseases, and various dental procedures can cause tooth sensitivity.
Teeth are composed of three layers: the outermost layer called enamel, the middle layer called dentin, and the innermost layer called pulp, which is a live tissue responsible for tooth sensation. When there is erosion or breakage in the enamel or dentin layers of the teeth, the pulp layer becomes more vulnerable to the external environment. As a result, sensitivity is felt in this layer that contains the nerves.
How To Prevent Teeth Sensitivity?
- A toothpaste containing fluoride and a soft toothbrush should be used.
- The spaces between teeth should be cleaned daily with dental floss.
- Attention should be paid to the content, quality, and usage of oral care products.
- Acidic beverages should be avoided as much as possible.
- Additionally, during periods of intense tooth sensitivity, a straw can be used when consuming hot or cold drinks.
- Sugar-free gum can be chewed, and the consumption of dairy products can be increased.
- In case tooth sensitivity is detected during a dental examination, enamel polishing/veneering with fluoride gel can be performed.
- Mouthwashes recommended by the dentist after a dental examination can be used.
How Is Teeth Sensitivity Treated?
Dentists recommend several different treatments to address tooth sensitivity:
- Desensitizing toothpaste: This type of toothpaste reduces nerve sensitivity and can gradually decrease sensitivity over time.
- Root canal treatment: If sensitivity in the tooth does not improve with preliminary treatments and increases in severity, root canal treatment is one of the most effective methods to eliminate sensitivity.
- Surgical gum graft: If there is a loss of tissue between the tooth root and the gum, a surgical gum graft can be performed to reduce sensitivity by transplanting gum tissue to the affected area.
- Fluoride: Applying fluoride to the sensitive areas of the teeth can strengthen tooth enamel and alleviate discomfort. Fluoride varnish can be applied in a dental clinic, and prescription fluoride products can be used at home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Sensitivity
After the causes of teeth sensitivity are determined by radiography and physician examination, the procedures to be applied are decided. Depending on the patient's condition, fluoride loading, root canal treatment or surgical gingival graft are transplanted.
Sensitive dental treatments may be required if the teeth feel tingly and uncomfortable in contact with cold and hot food, air, etc.
Tooth sensitivity treatments are usually completed in a single session. However, regular checks continue.
No pain is felt after tooth sensitivity treatment is completed. Only tenderness can be felt for 1-2 more days.
This period may vary according to the applied tooth sensitivity treatments. If only fluoride loading or root canal treatment has been done; You can eat 2 hours after the procedure.
After tooth sensitivity treatment, it is necessary to take a 3-day break from the consumption of acidic beverages.
Tooth sensitivity treatment can be applied to all patients.
Tooth sensitivity treatment in all seasons; can be applied without any difference.
The patient not only gets relief from current sensitivity and pain but also prevents the loss of teeth with compromised roots.
After a tooth sensitivity treatment applied with the right techniques, there is no bad breath.
One week after tooth sensitivity treatment, the first check-up should be done. Afterwards, a routine check-up should be done every 6 months.
X-rays are taken to determine the cause of tooth sensitivity and the dentist will determine which procedures will be applied.
The reason for feeling tooth sensitivity in the teeth is usually based on the roots of the tooth. If the treatment is neglected, the problem in the roots may progress and lead to the loss of the tooth.
No pain is felt during tooth sensitivity treatment.
After the tooth sensitivity treatment is completed, the patient can immediately return to his daily life. However, the full recovery period takes an average of 48 hours.
You can drink water 2 hours after tooth sensitivity treatment.
You can brush your teeth 2 hours after the tooth sensitivity procedure.
There is no harm in having tooth sensitivity treatment while pregnant. However, pregnant patients should get approval from their doctor before having tooth sensitivity treatment.
After dental sensitivity treatment, you can do sports whenever you want.
When tooth sensitivity treatment is performed by the dentist by providing the necessary medical conditions, there is no risk.
The permanence of tooth sensitivity treatment depends on how much attention the person pays to dental hygiene.
If appropriate medical conditions are provided by the dentist in tooth sensitivity treatments, the success rate is very high.