TOOTH WEAR AND TREATMENT
Tooth Wear and Sensitivity: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Methods
If you experience sudden, sharp pain in your teeth when you drink a cold beverage or eat something sweet, you may be experiencing tooth sensitivity. This problem not only causes discomfort but can also lead to permanent damage to tooth tissue if left untreated. At Prodenta Dental Clinic in Ataşehir, the underlying cause of tooth sensitivity is identified and a personalized treatment plan is prepared.
How does tooth sensitivity occur?
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When the enamel, the protective outer layer of a tooth, thins or disappears for any reason, the underlying dentin tissue is exposed. Since the channels within the dentin extend to the nerve endings, stimuli such as hot, cold, acidic, or sweet can cause short-lived but intense pain.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Gum recession resulting in exposure of the tooth root.
Hard and incorrect brushing (brushing horizontally or with excessive pressure)
Acid erosion (acidic drinks, reflux, bulimia)
Wear of chewing surfaces due to bruxism (teeth clenching/grinding).
Early tooth decay
Stimulation of dentin fluid through tooth cracks
Methods to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity
Signs of Tooth Wear
Short, sharp pain upon exposure to cold, heat, or sweet stimuli.
Yellowing and loss of indented tissue (concave wear) in the tooth neck region.
Pitting on the chewing surface of the back teeth
Teeth appear shorter (uniform wear across the entire surface – bruxism)
Choose a medium or soft-bristled toothbrush; brush using a circular motion or Bass brushing technique.
Wait at least 30 minutes after consuming acidic foods and drinks before brushing your teeth.
Drink carbonated beverages through a straw.
Use a fluoride-containing sensitivity-reducing toothpaste; add a fluoride mouthwash.
If you have bruxism, get a night guard made.
Tooth Sensitivity Treatment Options
Application of fluoride varnishes and solutions to the tooth surface.
Use of desensitizing products that seal dentin tubules.
Physical closure of the tubules with laser application.
Composite restorations for exposed root surfaces.
If there is gum recession, periodontal/plastic surgery with gum grafting can be performed.
Custom-made occlusal splint for bruxism-related wear.
If you continue to experience tooth sensitivity, visit Prodenta Dental Clinic in Ataşehir to determine the underlying cause.