Having sensitive teeth can be quite a pain, literally. It's understandable if you want to do whatever you can to avoid this discomfort. However, the decision you make about how you address the issue will ultimately determine whether it continues to be a problem -- potentially an even bigger one -- or goes away for good. Here's what you should know about the leading methods of caring for this problem.
Sensitivity Toothpaste
Sensitivity toothpaste is often reached for when people have sensitive teeth. It's advertised to be useful specifically for people with sensitive teeth. And the reality is, sensitivity toothpaste does a good job of reducing discomfort. However, that doesn't mean that it's the solution you're looking for.
Sensitivity toothpaste doesn't resolve the underlying problem of sensitive teeth. Teeth typically only become sensitive when their enamel wears down or becomes overly thin. When this happens, the nerves become more sensitive and the slightest sensation, cold or hot, can feel excruciating. Sensitivity toothpastes help to plug up holes in the tooth, preventing nerves from sensing anything. However, they don't repair enamel.
Crowns
Another common method of taking care of this problem is dental crowns, which can be put over teeth by a dentist. Dentist crowns cover the entire tooth from top to bottom, front to back, preventing it from coming into contact with anything. This typically produces an immediate level of pain relief.
This method is preferable to sensitivity toothpaste because it addresses the underlying problem. Crowns keep out bacteria and plaque, preventing damage from happening to your tooth. While they don't replace the enamel, they act as a second layer of artificial enamel, keeping your teeth healthy.
What to Expect
If you choose to get dental crowns, you should know that it's a typically easy process for the patient. You'll come in once to have your teeth examined and measured. From there, your dentist will determine what size of crowns you need, and the two of you will discuss color. Yes, you can choose the shade of white of your dental crowns, ensuring that they blend in with your other teeth.
Once your crowns are ready, you'll be brought back to the office one more time to have them put on. This process doesn't require numbing of any kind and isn't painful. Your dentist will simply clean your teeth and apply the crowns with dental cement.
Dental crowns can protect your teeth in a way that sensitivity toothpaste just can't. There's nothing wrong with using the toothpaste while you wait to see a dentist, but remember that it's not a cure, just a stopgap.
For more information on dental crowns, contact a company in your area like Demianko Dental Care.
Share25 September 2019
Do you have a different doctor from your spouse? Does your child see a pediatrician? Most families have different medical health providers for different members of the family. This makes sense in most cases, but did you know that you can find a dentist who will treat every person in the family from a baby to a senior? I'm a manager or a family dentist, and in this blog you will learn why a family dentist is a great idea. I will tell you the many advantages of taking every family member to the same dentist, and I will give you tips of finding the right dental office for your family.