Como Park Dentistry - St. Paul

Tooth Sensitivity Treatment in St. Paul

Say goodbye to the discomfort of sensitive teeth with effective treatments available both at our office and in the comfort of your home!
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The Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity occurs when the nerves in your teeth become exposed due to enamel damage. Enamel protects the dentin and tooth nerve, and when it wears away, sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods can occur.

Common causes of tooth enamel damage include:

  • Acidic foods and drinks: Frequent consumption of acidic foods or beverages, especially before bed, can erode enamel.
  • Poor oral care: Skipping brushing, flossing, or using improper techniques can damage enamel.
  • Aggressive brushing: Brushing too hard or using a stiff toothbrush can wear down enamel.
  • Health conditions: Issues like acid reflux or bulimia can expose teeth to stomach acids.
  • Gum disease and recession: Untreated gum disease can expose sensitive tooth roots.
  • Cracked or chipped teeth: Damaged teeth are more prone to sensitivity.
  • Untreated cavities: Cavities that aren’t treated lead to more extensive damage.
  • Tobacco, cannabis, or vaping: These can cause enamel erosion and gum problems.
  • Teeth grinding: Clenching or grinding teeth wears down enamel.
  • Excessive whitening: Overuse of whitening products or toothpaste can weaken enamel.

Early treatment and proper oral care can prevent further damage and ease sensitivity. Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining strong, healthy teeth.

What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?

The first and most important step when experiencing dental pain or discomfort is to schedule a visit with your dentist. This allows us to rule out any underlying issues and recommend the best treatments for any damage or decay found during your appointment. With a clear diagnosis, you can move forward confidently, knowing you’re on the right path to relief. Let’s walk through the process:

Figure out the underlying cause

We start by listening to your symptoms and asking about the frequency of your sensitivity. Your dentist may take X-rays and conduct tests, like a cold or tap test, to pinpoint the exact cause of your discomfort.

Treatment in the Office

If sensitivity is caused by damage or decay, treatments like fillings or crowns may be recommended. For worn enamel, both at-home and in-office solutions are available. We’ll review all options with you so you can choose the best course of action.

Personalized advice

Since tooth sensitivity can stem from several causes, a thorough exam is essential to pinpoint the issue. Based on your specific needs, your dentist will provide personalized tips to strengthen your enamel and help prevent future sensitivity.

Contact us today

to schedule an initial consultation & exam.

Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.

Frequently Asked Questions

Switch to a toothbrush with soft bristles and make sure to brush twice daily using desensitizing toothpaste. Focus on cleaning gently along the gumline, floss regularly, and use a fluoridated mouthwash. Limit acidic and sugary foods and drinks, like coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice, especially before bed. If you notice teeth grinding or clenching, try mindfulness or relaxation techniques to ease the pressure on your jaw. For long-term relief, visit a dentist to determine and address the root cause of your sensitivity.

In some cases, improving your at-home oral hygiene routine can stop tooth sensitivity. Keeping your teeth clean helps prevent further enamel erosion, allowing for potential repair, especially with the help of fluoride treatments. However, dental pain often signals a deeper issue that needs attention. If the dentin is exposed due to significant enamel loss or decay, you could risk an infection or abscess. Professional evaluation is essential to ensure proper care and treatment.

Stress can indirectly lead to tooth sensitivity. High stress levels may cause people to neglect their oral care routines, consume more sugary or acidic foods, or increase smoking. Additionally, stress often triggers teeth grinding or clenching, which can damage enamel and contribute to sensitivity. Addressing stress through relaxation techniques and maintaining good oral care can help reduce these effects.

Certain foods can contribute to enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity. Acidic foods and drinks like coffee, wine, fruit juice, and tomatoes can wear down enamel. Sugary or starchy foods, such as chocolate, caramel, soda, donuts, and cookies, encourage bacterial growth that produces enamel-eroding acids. Hard foods like ice, hard candy, and items with pits or kernels, such as popcorn or olives, can also damage enamel. While these foods don’t need to be avoided entirely, moderation and proper dental care, especially before bed, can help protect your teeth.

Choose foods and drinks that are low in sugar and acidity to support dental health. High-fiber foods and dairy products encourage saliva production and strengthen teeth. A balanced diet rich in protein and calcium also promotes healthy enamel. Tooth-friendly options include:

  • Drinks: Water, green tea, black tea.
  • Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery, carrot sticks, apple slices, cheese.
  • Main Courses: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, or meat and potatoes with vegetables.
  • Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta with berries, applesauce.

Incorporating these into your diet helps protect sensitive teeth while offering a variety of nutritious and delicious options.

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