Winter Holidays are approaching and it’s time for celebration with friends and family, relaxation and… delicious festive food! Enjoying your favorite dishes, however, might be a painful experience, if you suffer from tooth sensitivity. Good news is that sensitive teeth can be treated! Find out what Burien dentists recommend.

What causes teeth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is a common condition and according to statistics more than half of American adults are affected by it. It is usually the result of exposed dentin. In healthy teeth, a layer above the gum line, called enamel protects the crowns of your teeth. Under the enamel, there is a layer called cementum, protecting the tooth root. Underneath both the enamel and the cementum is the dentin. Dentin is less dense than enamel and cementum and contains microscopic tubules. When dentin loses its protective covering of enamel or cementum these tubules allow heat and cold or acidic or sticky foods to reach the nerves and cells inside the tooth. The result can be teeth hypersensitivity.

Among the main causes of exposed dentine and sensitive teeth are:

• Teeth Cavities
• Gum disease / periodontitis
• Fractured teeth
• Worn enamel
• Worn fillings

What can you do if you have sensitive teeth?

To choose an accurate treatment option for your sensitive teeth, you need to know what the reason for your tooth sensitivity is. Therefore, it is best to consult your Burien dentist and find out what your individual solution could be. Your Burien dentist may suggest one of the following treatment solutions:

1. Desensitizing toothpaste. This type of toothpaste contains compounds that help block transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve, and usually requires several applications before the sensitivity is reduced.

1. Fluoride gel. The appliance of fluoride gel is in-office dental procedure. The fluoride treatment strengthens the tooth enamel and reduces the transmission of sensations.

1. Dental crown or bonding. These may be used to correct a flaw or decay that results in sensitivity.

1. Root canal treatment. In case of a severe tooth sensitivity, which can’t be treated by other means, your dentist could recommend root canal treatment to eliminate the problem.

1. Surgical gum graft. If gum tissue has been lost from the root, this treatment will protect the root and reduce sensitivity.

If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, our best advice will be to consult your Burien dentist, who would offer you a thorough examination and help you chose the best solution for your individual needs.