This summer you may be looking forward to the simple pleasures in life, like drinking ice cold lemonade on the porch, patronizing your local snow cone stand, or enjoying an ice cream cone on a hot day. However, if you have tooth sensitivity, the thought of eating snow cones, biting into ice cream, or drinking ice cold beverages may make you cringe. Our Fresno dentists, Dr. Alex Denes and Dr. Claudia Denes explain the causes of temperature sensitivity and what they can do to help.
Why Are My Teeth Temperature Sensitive?
Some basic knowledge of tooth anatomy can help you understand the causes of cold sensitivity. Imagine that the outermost layer of your tooth is like a thin sheet of glass. The enamel is the barrier against bacteria, food particles, and extreme heat or cold. The thicker the enamel, the safer the tooth. If the enamel layer is thin, the sensitive inner structure of the tooth is more vulnerable. Much like a thin sheet of glass would transfer heat or cold more easily, a thin layer of enamel transfers hot and cold sensations to the tooth’s nerves.
What Causes Enamel Erosion?
- Teeth grinding, also called bruxism
- TMJ disorder, or TMD
- Dry mouth, or xerostomia
- Acidic or sugary foods
- Biting or chewing inedible or hard objects like pens or ice
How Can I Alleviate Tooth Sensitivity?
Fluoride strengthens the mineral composition of enamel creating a healthier defensive outer layer, relieving tooth sensitivity. Fluoride treatments are a great way to restore some of your tooth strength and relieve the symptoms of enamel erosion. You may also use fluoridated toothpaste for sensitive teeth, or swish with a fluoridated mouth wash. You should also consider treatments for the cause of your tooth sensitivity, like bruxism appliances, TMD treatment, or dry mouth treatment.
Get back to eating and drinking the things you love with dental care from our Fresno dentists. For more information, call Drs. Alex Denes and Claudia Denes today at (559) 297-1800. Fresno Dental Studio serves patients in Fresno, Clovis, Sanger, Mendota, Orange Cove, Reedley, Selma, and the surrounding areas.