Q: Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to chat with us today.
Edmond Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: It’s no problem, I’m happy to be here.
Q: Today we would like to talk about tooth sensitivity.
Edmond, OK, Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: This is actually a pretty widespread issue that doesn’t get as much attention as it probably deserves.
Q: Let’s start with the causes of tooth sensitivity…
Edmond Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Tooth sensitivity is caused by dentin exposure.
Q: What’s dentin?
Edmond, OK, Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Dentin is the soft tissue covering the roots of the teeth. When exposed it allows access to thousands of tiny nerves that lead into the tooth pulp.
Q: Nerves – so that’s what causes pain when eating hot or cold foods?
Edmond Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: That’s right.
Q: What types of things lead to nerve exposure?
Edmond, OK, Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Wear and tear, for one. If you brush too hard or grind your teeth the enamel can wear down.
Q: Anything else?
Edmond Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Absolutely – the list goes on and on. Gum disease, tooth decay, and plaque buildup can all trigger tooth sensitivity.
Q: Do our teeth become more sensitive with age?
Edmond, OK, Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: They do, yes. Most people experience the most sensitivity between 25 and 30 years of age.
Q: What outside factors affect tooth sensitivity?
Edmond Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Overindulgence in acidic foods as well as long-term mouthwash use can wear the enamel over time. Even some dental procedures can cause temporary tooth sensitivity.
Q: What kind of procedures?
Edmond, OK, Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Occasionally, replacing a crown or any other type of tooth restoration can make the teeth sensitive. Regular cleanings may also lead to heightened senses. In these cases, sensitivity should subside in 4 to 6 weeks.
Q: What dental procedures may be recommended to ease tooth discomfort?
Edmond Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Your dentist may recommend composite fillings, fluoride treatment, and/or sealants to help cover the root surface.
Q: Why is fluoride so important?
Edmond Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that helps to strengthen teeth. It’s especially important that children receive fluoride treatments but adults can certainly benefit as well.
Q: You mentioned “composite” fillings what does that mean?
Edmond, OK, Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: A composite filling is simply a tooth-colored material used in place of the old-fashioned, mercury-based filling material.
Q: Is it more effective?
Edmond Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: It’s certainly safer. My office is completely mercury free as mercury has been known to cause adverse side effects.
Q: That sounds like an entirely new discussion.
Edmond, OK, Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: And one that I would welcome any time.
Q: We appreciate you talking with us today. Thank you for all of your information.
Edmond Dentist Damon R. Johnson, DDS: It’s been my pleasure.
