TOOTH WEAR AND TREATMENT
TOOTH WEAR AND SENSITIVITY
When the dentin tissue, which is the protective layer of our teeth, is removed for any reason and comes into contact with the oral environment, various stimuli (hot, cold, acidic, sugary and/or sour foods and drinks) cause short-term pain in the teeth. This is called tooth sensitivity.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF TOOTH SENSITIVITY?
Exposure of the root of the tooth due to receding gums
Hard and incorrect tooth brushing
Cracks or fractures in teeth
Presence of initial caries in teeth
Acid erosion
TOOTH SENSITIVITY AND WEAR
SYMPTOMS?
The enamel tissue of the teeth close to the gums can be eroded for various reasons. Symptoms of tooth erosion;
○ The sensitivity of the teeth to cold increases.
○ Tooth wear often occurs together with gum recession.
○ The tooth tissue near the gum edge wears away and turns yellow. A recess (cavity) forms in the tooth close to the gum.
○ Presence of initial caries in teeth
○ Pit-shaped abrasions and sensitivity may develop on the chewing surfaces of the teeth in the back area.
CAN TOOTH SENSITIVITY AND WEAR BE PREVENTED?
○ Avoid brushing back and forth (horizontal) or up and down (vertical) in a single area. The teeth are massaged with 7-8 circular movements in one area and then all tooth surfaces (cheek, tongue-palate and chewing surfaces) are cleaned by sliding the brush forward one length.
○ A medium or soft hardness toothbrush should be used.
○ In order to prevent tooth abrasion, a gel type (reduced abrasive) or desensitizing toothpaste containing fluoride should be used. Whitening toothpaste recommended by the dentist can be prescribed for people who brush their teeth too hard to whiten them. Fluoride mouthwashes can also be used.
○ Teeth should not be brushed immediately after acidic foods and drinks. Teeth can be brushed after 2-3 hours.
○ Acidic (fizzy) drinks should be drunk with a straw.
○ In teeth with extensive enamel loss, light-enhanced composites (white fillings) should be used because of increased sensitivity due to the exposure of the underlying yellow tissue (dentin).
○ If the patient is found to be clenching or grinding his/her teeth, a night plate should be prepared.
○ If a person brushes their teeth too hard because they do not like the color of their teeth or in order to whiten them, whitening can be applied after the tooth abrasions are covered with light fillings.
WHAT DOES THE TREATMENT PLAN FOR TOOTH SENSITIVITY AND WEAR INCLUDE?
○ First of all, the physician determines the cause of the problem.
○ Tries to keep the individual away from behaviors or habits that cause sensitivity.
○ Desensitizing fluoride-containing solutions or varnishes may be applied to exposed root surfaces.
○ Laser application can be done.
○ If necessary, the sensitivity is eliminated by making various restorations in these areas.
SHOULD YOU GO TO THE DENTIST IF YOU HAVE TOOTH SENSITIVITY?
In order for the sensitivity to not progress and to be completely eliminated, the cause must be determined. If the sensitivity is caused by decay, gum recession or tooth wear, the necessary dental treatment must be performed. Therefore, people with sensitivity should consult a dentist.