Tooth sensitivity is a common dental issue — in fact, dentists report around 12% of their patients complain about having tooth sensitivity. This is concerning because tooth sensitivity can significantly impact your quality of life by making simple pleasures like enjoying an ice cream treat or sipping your morning cup of coffee a painful experience. 

The persistent discomfort associated with sensitive teeth can range from mild tingling to sharp, shooting pains, often interfering with daily activities. For some individuals, tooth sensitivity can get so bad that it leads to altered eating habits, reduced social interactions, and even dental anxiety. Fortunately, there are several effective tooth sensitivity treatments available to alleviate symptoms.

Continue reading to learn what you can do to help alleviate your dental sensitivity and where to find the best general dentist in Robbinsville Township for lasting treatment.

Why Are My Teeth Sensitive? 

Teeth become sensitive when the protective outer layers of enamel begin to wear away, exposing the underlying dentin. Dentin contains microscopic tubes that lead to the tooth's nerve center, allowing hot, cold, and acidic substances to reach the nerve and cause pain.

This erosion can occur because of various factors, including:

  • Aggressive brushing
  • Tooth decay
  • Gum recession
  • Teeth grinding
  • Acidic foods and drinks
  • Certain dental procedures

Additionally, some people may have naturally thinner enamel, making them more prone to sensitivity. 

How to Treat Tooth Sensitivity at Home

Treating tooth sensitivity at home can help you improve your overall oral health and help you get relief from the sharp tooth pain or dull toothaches that come along with having sensitive teeth. Several effective methods can be easily implemented into your daily routine — including: 

  • Using a desensitizing toothpaste containing ingredients like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride
  • Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid further enamel erosion
  • Avoiding acidic foods and drinks that can worsen sensitivity
  • Using a mouthguard at night if you grind your teeth
  • Rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash to help remineralize enamel
  • Maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent further dental issues
  • Drinking through a straw to minimize contact between sensitive teeth and acidic beverages
  • Using warm water for brushing if cold water causes discomfort

Although these strategies can help manage tooth sensitivity, it's important to consult with a dentist for professional evaluation and treatment if symptoms persist or worsen. 

When to See a Dentist for Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity can sometimes mean you have a more serious dental issue — such as a cracked tooth or infection inside your tooth — so it’s always a good idea to see a dentist if tooth sensitivity is new for you or if it does not get better with at-home treatments. 

A dentist can get to the root of your dental sensitivity by doing a thorough dental exam and taking dental X-rays to look for problems the naked eye can’t see. Based on your exam and dental imaging, your dentist can offer several medical-grade treatment options, including: 

  • Dental sealants or bonding agents to cover exposed root surfaces
  • Root canal in the case of an infection or dental abscess 
  • In-office desensitizing treatments
  • Fluoride varnishes to strengthen enamel
  • Prescription-strength desensitizing toothpaste
  • Gum grafting procedures to address receding gums

Attending your regularly scheduled dental check-ups is also important for maintaining oral health and addressing sensitivity issues before they become more severe.

Where to Find the Best General Dentist in Robbinsville Township

At Smiles Family Dentistry, we understand the impact of sensitive teeth on your daily life — and we're here to help you find relief. Our expert team specializes in addressing dental discomfort, including sensitivity issues, with a comprehensive and personalized approach that includes pinpointing the exact cause of your sensitivity — whether it's enamel erosion, gum recession, or another underlying issue.

Our state-of-the-art clinic in Robbinsville Township is equipped with the latest technology to diagnose and treat tooth sensitivity effectively. We offer a range of advanced treatments tailored to your unique needs, from professional-grade desensitizing agents and fluoride treatments to more advanced procedures like dental bonding or gum grafting when necessary. 

At Smiles Family Dentistry, our dental providers and dental hygienists are dedicated to empowering our patients with knowledge and preventive care strategies. This is why we'll provide you with personalized strategies to help you maintain optimal oral health at home, including recommendations for specialized products and techniques to manage sensitivity. Our commitment to your comfort and overall well-being extends beyond the dental chair — we're dedicated to helping you enjoy a pain-free, confident smile for years to come.

Ready to get expert help for tooth sensitivity from the top dentists in Robbinsville Township?