The problem of sensitive teeth usually arises when the gums recede, leading to dentin exposure. Some causes of dentin exposure include:

• Tooth brush abrasion - brushing your teeth too hard, and brushing from side to side, can cause enamel to be worn away, particularly where the teeth meet the gums.  It is estimated that 50-75% of people brush with too much pressure.
• Poor dental hygiene. This may allow plaque to build up at the gum line. Over time this plaque hardens into tartar. Bacteria in this tartar are responsible for the gum disease that leads to gum recession.
• Long-term tooth wear can lead to the loss of enamel.
• Frequently eating or drinking acidic foods or beverages can dissolve the outer enamel layer, exposing the dentin or the tooth.

You can prevent tooth sensitivity by the following:

• Brush your teeth at least 2 times a day for at least two minutes. Remember, it takes 2 to 3 minutes to properly brush all your tooth surfaces. Try to avoid brushing your teeth from side to side.
• Using a soft or ultra-soft toothbrush.
• Reducing the pressure to brush our teeth helps tremendously.
• Flossing daily helps prevent gum recession disease.
• Using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth
• Use of a fluoride mouth rinse
• Visiting your Vaughan dentist for regular dental cleanings

Your dentist can treat tooth sensitivity in a variety of ways.  The simplest method is the use of a fluoride varnish or gel desensitizer applied by the dentist vaughan to the exposed root surfaces.  After a cleaning, the Vaughan dentist applies fluoride to protect your teeth. This can be painted on the teeth at regular appointments one or two weeks apart, to build up some coverage. Sensitivity can take time to resolve, and there may be the need for several appointments. A more modern method is to use a dental laser. The laser treatment can modify the tubules to reduce sensitivity. Using fluoride toothpastes and fluoride mouth rinses at home also will help to reduce sensitivity. There are toothpastes are available specifically for sensitive teeth.

In second approach to treat tooth sensitivity, a dentist can use white fillings (bonding) to cover exposed root surfaces. The dentist vaughan will apply a tooth-colored filling material to replace the lost enamel and cover the sensitive part of the tooth.

Finally, a dentist may elect to perform a gum grafting procedure to regenerate lost gum tissue.  During gum grafting procedure, the dentist Vaughan will usually obtain tissue from the roof of the mouth and suture it to the affected gum recession area. This permits more tissue to grow and cover the exposed root surface. Subsequent to removing the tissue to be transplanted, the affected area on the roof of the mouth is sutured for healing.