What to Do about Tooth Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

If there’s one thing that can ruin a hot cup of coffee or a cold bowl of ice cream, it’s tooth sensitivity. When the teeth are sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, eating can become a pain - literally. Although some mild sensitivity may be normal on occasion, more severe sensitivity, or that which is persistent, is often a sign of a dental problem.

Restorative dentistry treatments repair worn or damaged tooth enamel to strengthen the teeth. Restorative treatments also reinforce the protective layer surrounding the sensitive tissues and nerves that reside at the center of each tooth. With appropriated dental treatment, Dr. Warren D. Silvers, Sr. can relieve tooth sensitivity to hot and cold for our Harrisburg, PA patients so that they can once again enjoy eating and drinking in comfort.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Although there are delicate nerves and tissues at the center of the teeth, they are surrounded by a hard, protective layer of enamel. Tooth enamel has no nerve tissues, so patients can bite, chew, and drink without experiencing any pain or discomfort. Unfortunately, tooth enamel can become damaged or worn down.

As tooth enamel weakens, the tooth’s underlying layer of dentin is exposed, and, eventually, the pulp of the tooth (the collection of nerves and delicate tissues) is exposed as well. It is when these tissues become vulnerable that a patient begins to experience tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. Some of the most common causes of thin, worn down, or damaged tooth enamel include the following:

• Tooth decay
• Erosion
• Aging
• Bruxism (grinding and clenching)
• Oral injury

Treating Tooth Sensitivity

There are many options to consider when tooth sensitivity is a problem. This includes a multitude of over-the-counter oral hygiene products that are designed for sensitive teeth. It can be helpful to switch to a toothpaste or mouth rinse that is formulated for sensitive teeth. While these products do not build new tooth enamel, they can minimize discomfort and aid in the prevention of further loss of tooth enamel.

The most effective way to relieve tooth sensitivity to hot and cold is by undergoing restorative dentistry treatment. These treatments use dental restorations to replace worn or damaged tooth enamel. When these restorations are hardened to the tooth or bonded in place, they strengthen the tooth and restore a protective layer around the pulp of the tooth. Dr. Silvers offers a range of restorative dentistry treatments, including dental bonding, inlays and onlays, and dental crowns. He is happy to discuss which type of treatment will be most appropriate for each of his patients’ unique situations.

Schedule an Appointment

Dr. Warren D. Silvers, Sr. prides himself on providing high quality dental care that leaves his patients with healthy, beautiful smiles. If you are concerned with tooth sensitivity and would like to learn more about the restorative dentistry treatments offered at Silvers Family Dental Care, schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience.