How to Deal with Tooth Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
When an oral injury causes sudden and severe pain, most patients see their dentist right away. However, when tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures develops, many patients fail to seek treatment. It is a common misbelief that this sensitivity is a minor problem that simply needs to be endured.
However, tooth sensitivity diminishes oral comfort and can compromise a person’s quality of life. Rather than dealing with this discomfort, patients should seek help. Restorative dentistry treatments strengthen worn down or damaged tooth enamel and can often be extremely effective in minimizing or reducing tooth sensitivity. Patients who are experiencing tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures should come to our Long Island, NY dental practice, Garden City Smiles, to learn how our experienced dentists can help restore oral comfort.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
It is not uncommon for people to experience sensitivity when the teeth are exposed to extreme temperatures. At the center of each tooth is a collection of sensitive nerves. Although tooth enamel is meant to protect these nerves and prevent pain, any damage in the enamel can expose these sensitive tissues. When the nerves are exposed, pain and heightened sensitivity are a common side effect. While some patients have naturally thin tooth enamel, persistent tooth sensitivity is more likely the result of oral damage. Some of the most likely causes of tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures include the following:
- Tooth decay
- Acid erosion
- A chip, crack, or fracture
- Root canal infection
- Damaged dental work
When to See a Dentist
It is always important to report tooth sensitivity to the dentist. When tooth sensitivity is minor, it should be reported at your next routine dental exam. However, tooth sensitivity that is severe, or that is persistently a problem, should be reported as soon as possible. When oral damage is present, it is always best to address the situation before it worsens.
Treating Tooth Sensitivity
There are many dental products that are designed to minimize tooth sensitivity. Products such as toothpaste and mouthwash designed for sensitive teeth can minimize the discomfort of tooth sensitivity. Unfortunately, these products cannot rebuild worn down or damaged tooth enamel.
If tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures is a result of oral damage, restorative dentistry treatment is recommended. These dental treatments restore a strong, protective layer around the sensitive inner layer of the teeth. With this protective barrier restored, patients can resume eating and drinking in comfort. Some of the dental treatments that may be especially beneficial to patients with tooth sensitivity to hot and cold include the following:
- Dental bonding
- Dental fillings
- Inlays and onlays
- Dental crowns
Our experienced dentists can examine the teeth to determine the extent of oral damage and recommend a treatment plan that is most likely to address damage and restore oral comfort.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are suffering from sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, our experienced dentists can help you restore oral comfort. Schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience to learn more about the restorative dentistry treatments offered at our practice.