Research finds that 1 in 8 Americans suffer from sensitive teeth. It’s safe to say that many of you (or someone you know) may be suffering from tooth sensitivity. What causes teeth to be sensitive? Well you see, your tooth's surface is actually porous. There are dentin tubules that run from the dentin (the layer under your enamel) of your tooth all the way through to the pulp, which is the nerve of the tooth. The enamel kind of serves as the dentin's protective layer. As the enamel erodes, it exposes the dentin, which can cause sensitivity or discomfort. Receding gums may also expose the dentin, causing sensitivity.
What Can Help My Sensitivity?
We recommend a bi-annual fluoride application in our office. Fluoride acts like a shield to block acids that demineralize your enamel, causing decay and sensitivity. We also suggest using a toothpaste like Sensodyne for home use in addition to our fluoride application. A fluoride toothpaste fills the tooth's porous surface (see example image). For more extreme sensitivity, we can send you home with prescription fluoride.
Other Benefits of Fluoride
It's a common misconception that fluoride mainly works by strengthening teeth while they are still developing or is just for kids. Studies now show that topical fluoride helps fight decay in people of all ages. Older patients can benefit from fluoride because they sometimes suffer from dry mouth, a side affect from certain medications.
Fluoride works in two ways:
Topical fluoride strengthens the teeth once they have erupted by seeping into the outer surface of the tooth enamel, making the teeth more resistant to decay. We gain topical fluoride by using fluoride containing dental products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, and gels. Dentists and dental hygienists generally recommend that patients have a professional application of fluoride twice a year during dental check-ups.
Systemic fluoride strengthens the teeth that have erupted as well as those that are developing under the gums. We gain systemic fluoride from most foods and our community water supplies. It is also available as a supplement in drop or gel form and can be prescribed by your dentist or physician. Generally, fluoride drops are recommended for infants, and tablets are best suited for children up through the teen years. It is very important to monitor the amounts of fluoride a child ingests. If too much fluoride is consumed while the teeth are developing, a condition called fluorosis (white spots on the teeth) may result.
Ask your hygienist if you could benefit from fluoride when you're in for your routine visit. Not scheduled for your routine visit? Call now 765-664-0028!