Teeth sensitivity is found in 12% of American adults typically between the ages of 18 and 40. This sensitivity can be brief or intense and is caused when dentin, or the internal part of a tooth, is exposed to hot, cold, acidic, tactile, or sweet substances. In recent years, there has been an increase in teeth sensitivity among younger patients due to excessive consumption of sugary drinks and frequent unsupervised use of teeth whitening products.
Tooth sensitivity can signal the beginning stages of gum disease if left untreated. There are several options to decreasing tooth sensitivity depending on the cause, which include using desensitizing toothpaste, surgical gum graft, a root canal, or dental bonding. Here we’ll focus on a popular option: fluoride treatments.
If you use desensitizing toothpaste and it does not relieve teeth sensitivity, an in office topical fluoride treatment may be a better option to consider. If it is major tooth sensitivity, Dr. Trujillo, would opt for a fluoride varnish, which is a highly concentrated form of fluoride that is gently rubbed on the surface of the tooth. It may be applied to the tooth enamel, dentin, or cementum to help prevent decay. It also helps to remineralize the tooth surface and treats teeth sensitivity.
Fluoride varnish can be applied quickly and easily. It has a sticky consistency, allowing it to adhere to the tooth’s surface for several hours. It is officially recognized by the Food and Drug Administration as a desensitizing treatment. Keep in mind though, that due to the color of fluoride varnishes, it might cause temporary discoloration. As the varnish wears away with eating and brushing, the tint will fade.
Another option is fluoride gel or foam that is professionally applied by Dr. Trujillo. With this option, the foam or gel is put in a mouth tray. You will then sit with the tray in your mouth for 3-5 minutes to allow your teeth to be immersed in a high concentration of fluoride. This brief treatment will strengthen dentin and tooth enamel, thus diminishing tooth sensitivity.
Remember that there are several at home measures you can take to stop tooth sensitivity from the start. First, use a very soft bristled toothbrush and a low abrasive toothpaste. There are toothpastes specifically formulated to help soothe nerve endings in teeth. Be sure to brush a full 2 minutes, but do not over brush or push too hard. Also, your dentist may provide you with a special toothpaste that contains a high concentration of fluoride that will assist with diminishing tooth sensitivity.
If you have very sensitive teeth, and need to get treatment done then schedule an appointment with AZ Perio Group in Phoenix. If you are experiencing slight or severe tooth sensitivity, don’t hesitate to call and schedule a consultation. Let Dr. Trujillo help you relive your teeth sensitivity and smile back to normal!
