I have sensitive teeth, what can I do to treat them?

Does the taste of ice cream or a sip of coffee cause pain to your teeth? You may have sensitive teeth, here's how you can treat them.

Healthy teeth have a layer of enamel that protects the crowns of your teeth and the area above the gum line. When you have sensitive teeth, certain activities such as brushing, eating, or drinking can cause sharp and temporary pain. Sensitive teeth are the result of worn tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots. 

The type of treatment will depend on what is causing the sensitivity. Your dentist may recommend one of these treatments:

• Fluoride gel. An in-office technique that strengthens tooth enamel and reduces the transmission of sensations.
• Desensitizing toothpaste. Contains compounds that will help block the transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve. This treatment may take several applications before the sensitivity is reduced.
• Root canal. If your sensitive teeth cause severe pain and other treatments aren't effective, we recommend this procedure. A root canal is used to treat issues in the tooth's dental pulp and is the most successful technique for eliminating tooth sensitivity. 
• Crown or bonding. Exposed root surfaces can be treated by applying a bonding resin to the sensitive root surfaces.
• Surgical gum graft. If the tissue has been lost from the root, this can help protect exposed roots and reduce sensitivity.

We recommend booking an appointment with us if your sensitive teeth are bothering you. During your appointment, we can identify the causes of your tooth pain and discuss treatment.