As a local sleep dentist, we treat people with sensitive teeth on a regular basis. Teeth can become sensitive for a variety of reasons, and when they do, it is difficult for patients to receive treatment because they are already in pain. We can ensure that our patients are comfortable, and sleeping, during their procedures so that the issue causing the sensitivity can be addressed while keeping patients comfortable.
One of the common reasons for sensitivity is a lack of enamel. The enamel is the hard outer layer of the tooth. It is strong and durable but can wear away over time due to a lack of oral health care, brushing too rigorously or eating and drinking certain foods. As it wears away, dentin is exposed, and since dentin is porous, this can lead to pain. The tiny holes in the dentin contain nerve endings. As sensations are transmitted through the holes to your roots and to your brain, you can start to feel pain. This can be addressed with a bonding procedure to seal in the dentin or by having dental crowns placed.
As a sleep dentist, we regularly treat people that are suffering from gum disease. This condition can become very uncomfortable, lead to infection, and even tooth loss. Gum disease occurs when bacteria gathers on and under the gums. Once it is underneath the gums, it needs to be removed through a deep cleaning. We can do this while patients are sleeping so that there is no discomfort. After a deep cleaning is performed, the gums will typically heal themselves.
If gum disease spreads to a more advanced stage, the gums will start to recede. As they do, pockets are created in the gum tissue where bacteria tend to gather. Since more of the tooth and roots are exposed, the bacteria can start to attack the lower part of the tooth, roots, and the infection can lead to bone loss. This is a serious condition that can eventually lead to a person losing their teeth. In order to heal the gums in this stage, we perform a gum graft surgery to close the pockets and protect the tooth. This can also be done while patients are sleeping to ensure that they are entirely comfortable.
When the enamel is strong, and there is no sign of gum disease, the sensitivity is likely caused by a standard cavity. The larger a cavity becomes, the more painful it will be and the higher the chance of an infection settling into your jawbone. This can be incredibly uncomfortable, so we recommend scheduling a dental exam at the first sign of pain. If a cavity is treated right away, it will be a fast and easy procedure. If an infection spreads and gets into the jawbone, oral surgery is often required in order to drain the infection so that the mouth can start to heal. As a sleep dentist, we can assist with this procedure and help our patients to feel better quickly.
If you have sensitive teeth, schedule an appointment to find out why.
