Do your teeth experience a sharp pain whenever you have hot coffee? Your dentin could be exposed.
You may be wondering if the pain will ever go away and if you’ll be able to enjoy your sweet treats again. Keep reading to find out.
What is Dentin
Dentin is a soft layer found right below your enamel. It supports your tooth’s structure as it is connected to the layer of dental pulp beneath it.
Dental pulp contains nerve fibers that interpret everything as pain once dentin is exposed. Ouch!
Causes of Exposed Dentin
When enamel is worn away, it exposes dentin, leaving your tooth at risk. Your dentin can be exposed because of:
- Grinding: When you grind your teeth, it thins out your enamel.
- Gum recession: Built-up plaque along your gum line can cause your gums to recede and expose your dentin.
- Brushing too hard: Hard toothbrushes, abrasive toothpastes, or brushing too aggressively can wear down your enamel.
- Heartburn: When you have acid reflux, stomach acid can enter your mouth and erode your enamel.
- Impact: Eating hard candies and ice cubes can impact your teeth, weakening your enamel quicker.
Prevention
As with many dental issues, there are some preventative measures you can take to strengthen your enamel:
- Consult your dentist about getting a mouthguard or bite plate to help with grinding.
- Brush twice daily, and floss at least once a day to get rid of plaque and avoid gum recession.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to protect your enamel.
- Eat foods that boost your dental health rather than harm it.
- Swish water in your mouth after meals to dislodge food particles between your teeth to avoid bacteria build-up.
- Stop smoking or chewing tobacco – they recede your gums and weaken your enamel.
- Visit your dentist regularly for a check-up and cleaning to get rid of hard-to-reach plaque and catch any potential risks early.
Treatment Options
Your dentist will provide the best treatment plan for you, but these are the usual options to help with exposed dentin:
- Sensitivity toothpaste: After a few days of usage, your teeth should start to feel less pain – you can enjoy ice cream again!
- Fluoride treatment: The dentist will apply a fluoride gel to your teeth to strengthen your enamel and reduce your sensitivity.
- Gum graft: If you’ve lost gum tissue near the root, a periodontist will graft the area to protect the root.
- Root canal: If you experience severe pain your dentist will recommend this option to try to save the tooth.
The more you understand your teeth, the easier they are to care for, so you can enjoy hot and cold foods without the ache!
Struggling with tooth sensitivity? Book an appointment and we’ll be happy to provide the protection your smile needs!
