I have sensitive teeth. What are my options?

I have sensitive teeth. What are my options?

At Hartland Gentle Dental, we have patients coming in asking us why a taste of ice cream or a sip of coffee becomes a painful experience, or why brushing or flossing makes them wince or cringe. The answer, usually, is sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity typically occurs when the underlying dentin layer of the tooth is exposed in the oral cavity, and most people experience tooth sensitivity at some point in their lives.

So, why do people experience sensitivity and how do you know if tooth sensitivity is something to be worried about? The most common cause of the sensitivity is exposure of the dentin, which is the layer surrounding the tooth’s nerve. Contributors to tooth sensitivity include teeth whitening and dental work such as fillings, periodontal treatment, and the placement or adjustment of braces. These are temporary and should be of no concern.

Permanent hypersensitivity, however, may require treatment at Hartland Gentle Dental. The first step is to determine the cause, and that begins with a visit to our Hartland, Michigan office.

The reasons your teeth may become sensitive vary, but possible causes include:

  • Tooth decay (cavities) near the gum line
  • Cracked or fractured teeth
  • Fillings that are worn
  • Gum (periodontal) disease, or recession of the gums
  • Worn tooth enamel
  • Brushing too hard
  • Consuming acidic foods

the doctor and our team at Hartland Gentle Dental want you to know that sensitive teeth can be treated, and the type of treatment will depend on what is causing the sensitivity. the doctor may suggest one the following treatments:

  • Desensitizing toothpaste, which contains ingredients that seal off the microtubules inside the exposed dentin to reduce tooth sensitivity
  • Fluoride gel, which strengthens compromised tooth enamel, helps prevent tooth decay, and decreases hypersensitivity of the teeth
  • A crown, inlay, or bonding, which is used to treat tooth decay and prevents sensitivity
  • A surgical gum graft. If gum tissue has been lost from the root, this procedure will protect the root and reduce sensitivity.
  • Root canal: If you are experiencing severe and persistent sensitivity which cannot be treated by other means, the doctor may recommend you undergo a root canal to eliminate the problem.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, give us a call today so that the doctor can provide you with some much-needed relief!

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Monday:

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Tuesday:

8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Wednesday:

8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Thursday:

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

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Testimonials

See What Patients Say About Us

  • "Yep gentle dental indeed! You guys were awesome! My 3yr old had a wonderful experience. Thanks so much!"
    Stacey Wimbledon
  • "The doctor and staff at Harland Gentle Dental have been a welcome change to my dental experience. They have wonderful technology (where they will show you via camera what the problem issues are in your mouth, if any) and are very kind and through. The office is clean and inviting. I would recommend anyone to visit Dr. Bouhana and team."
    Jennifer Emery
  • "Had a dental issue today so I called Gentle Dental. They got me in same day on a cancelation. I didn’t wait at all. Dallas was my hygienist and she was great. Highly suggest if you’re looking for a friendly office that’s easy to get in and get out."
    Matt Smith
  • "Dr. Bouhana and his staff are nothing short of excellent! Mary at the front desk was understanding, very knowledgeable and exceptionally kind. Dr. Kyle is informative, transparent and he lives up to his practice's name, Gentle. He is great at what he does and I highly recommend him!"
    Andrew Kelley
  • "These guys are amazing!! I had a very bad experience with my previous dentist messing up fillings, so I came here with an emergency. They were able to see me right away and fix all the issues with my teeth. I ended up needing a root canal done on another tooth and I was so scared (it was my first root canal), but they were super helpful and supportive with the whole process, it couldn't have gone smoother! They are an awesome team and the dentist genuinely cares about your teeth! I'm so grateful for them!!"
    Chelsea Augustine
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