Do you experience sensitivity in your teeth when you bite or chew, or try to enjoy hot, cold or sweet foods and beverages? Tooth sensitivity can make eating and drinking difficult, but it can also keep you from brushing and flossing your teeth as you should. At the first sign of a problem, call our office at 301-445-5821. Our dentists, Dr. Kashyap Patel and Dr. Priya Patel, and the team at Smile Loft Dental at Hillandale can provide you with sensitive teeth treatments in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem that occurs when the dentin of your tooth is exposed. Dentin is a sturdy, calcified tissue and is usually covered by tooth enamel. It may be exposed as a result of a number of factors, including gum recession, periodontal disease, overaggressive brushing, tooth decay or excessive acid in your diet. As dentin consists of many tiny tubules, exposure of this area of the tooth leads to sensitivity and, in some cases, great discomfort.
There are several strategies that our dentists may recommend to treat tooth sensitivity. When sensitivity is mild, our dentists may recommend gently brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using fluoridated toothpaste. A toothpaste designed specifically for sensitive teeth may also be recommended. If sensitivity persists and your discomfort becomes more intense, we recommend that you schedule an appointment with our dentists, as it may be an early warning sign of other developing issues. Our dentists will work with you to find a treatment that will resolve the issue and eliminate your sensitivity. Treatments that may be recommended include fluoride varnishes, prescription mouthwashes and dental bonding.
To learn more about treatments for tooth sensitivity and make an appointment, contact our office today. We are committed to helping you regain your oral health and maintain a healthy smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sensitive teeth often occur when the protective enamel wears down or gums recede, exposing the dentin. This can be triggered by aggressive brushing, gum disease, acidic foods, or tooth decay.
You may feel sharp discomfort or pain when eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods. Even brushing or flossing can trigger a brief sensitivity reaction.
For mild sensitivity, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, desensitizing toothpaste, and gentle brushing can help reduce discomfort over time.
If sensitivity persists, becomes more intense, or interferes with eating and brushing, it’s best to schedule an exam — it may signal an underlying issue that needs professional care.
Mild sensitivity might improve with better oral care and protective products, but persistent pain should be evaluated by a dentist to prevent more serious problems.