Focus on Smiles Blog

Tooth sensitivity is caused when the dentin—the layer below the tooth enamel—is exposed due to diminished gum tissue. The roots of your teeth are not protected by enamel and contain thousands of tubules that lead to the tooth’s nerve center.

When exposed to hot and cold temperatures or sweet and sour foods, these tubules allow stimuli to impact the nerves in your tooth, which can result in serious discomfort.

Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

In some cases, tooth sensitivity is caused by brushing too hard, regularly using toothpaste containing baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, or using a mouthwash that contains alcohol. When this is the case, switching to a soft-bristle toothbrush and a nonirritating mouthwash can correct the problem. Other causes of tooth sensitivity include:

• Tooth decay
• Periodontal disease
• Cracked teeth
• At-home tooth whitening products

An examination with Edmonton dentist Dr. Christine Fialka-Eshenko can establish the cause of your tooth sensitivity and help determine treatment options to address your individual needs.

Treating Tooth Sensitivity

Depending on the cause and severity of your tooth sensitivity, treatments may include:

• Dental bonding, which covers and helps protect your teeth from further damage
• Porcelain fillings, which fill cavities and prevent additional decay
• Dental crowns, which encase and protect damaged teeth
• Periodontal treatment, which can correct the adverse affects of gum disease and help restore eroded gums
• Professional tooth whitening, which reduces the discomfort associated with long-term use of over-the-counter teeth-whitening products

If you live in the Edmonton, Alberta, area and suffer from sensitive teeth, please contact Dr. Christine Fialka-Eshenko at Focus on Smiles to schedule a consultation.