Tooth Sensitivity can be a bother, however, treating this problem can be easy. If you're sensitive after hot and cold foods and the dental pain goes right away, the sensitivity will probably disappear after brushing a few weeks with a desensitizing toothpaste such as Sensodyne or Denquel. A prescription flouride gel, such as PerioMed, works even better. Most of a tooth is made of a hard material called dentin. Dentin has thousands of microscopic tunnels, called tubules, with small nerves running through them. The body normally covers dentin but things can happen that unnaturally expose dentin.

          Tooth sensitivity can be caused by exposed tooth roots. Gums recede and the dentin is exposed if a patient has periodontal disease or grinds. Many patients grind and do not even know. The grinding bends a tooth and stresses the nerve at the neck of the tooth. Over time the dentin can dissolve away due to this bruxism and causes a large notch on the root of a tooth. Periodontal Disease causes the gums and bone underneath to become inflamed. The inflammation causes bone loss and the gums are lost with the bone loss. If it's due to periodontal disease the periodontal disease must be treated in addition to the sensitive teeth. Grinding is treated with a soft guard. Years ago hygienists believed that the discomfort was due to brushing too hard. Most toothbrushes today are made with soft tufts and rounded edges. Most of the time if nothing else appears wrong, the pain is due to unknown tooth grinding.

          Tooth sensitivity can also come from dental cavities and sinus infections. Cavities must be filled and sinus infections can usually be taken care of with antibiotics such as tetracycline 500 milligrams for 10 days. A chipped or fractured tooth can also cause some discomfort. Both of these problems are treated by having your dentist fix the tooth with a filling or crown.

          If tooth sensitivity does not go away immediately, there may be a more serious problem and you should see a dentist. The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. If you are concerned and want consult with Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, make an appointment by calling  404-874-7428.