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Ouch! That Cold Drink Hurt My Teeth! Finding Relief in Houston with Best Dental
That sudden, sharp pain when a cold beverage hits your teeth can be startling and uncomfortable. You’re not alone; tooth sensitivity to cold is a common complaint. The good news is that residents of Houston, TX, have a trusted partner in identifying and treating this issue: Best Dental. Understanding the reasons behind this sensitivity and the available treatments is the first step towards enjoying your favorite frosty drinks pain-free.
Types
Several factors can lead to that unwelcome jolt when enjoying an iced tea or smoothie. One of the most frequent reasons is exposed dentin. Your teeth have a hard outer layer called enamel. Beneath it lies dentin, a more porous layer with microscopic tubules that lead to the tooth’s nerve. If your enamel is worn down, or if your gums have receded, these tubules can become exposed. When cold (or hot, or sweet) stimuli reach these tubules, they can trigger nerve sensitivity, resulting in pain.
Common causes for enamel wear or gum recession include:
- Brushing too hard: Aggressive brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush can erode enamel and irritate gums over time.
- Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis): Inflamed or infected gums can pull away from the teeth, exposing the sensitive root surfaces.
- Cracked teeth or fillings: Cracks or worn-out dental work can create pathways for cold to reach the inner tooth.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism): Clenching or grinding your teeth can wear down enamel.
- Acidic foods and drinks: Frequent consumption of acidic items can erode enamel.
- Tooth decay (cavities): Cavities are essentially holes in your teeth that can expose sensitive structures.
At Best Dental in Houston, our experienced team can accurately diagnose the specific cause of your cold sensitivity through a thorough examination.
Treatment
Finding a Solution: Treatments for Cold Drink Tooth Pain at Best Dental
Once the cause of your tooth sensitivity is identified, Best Dental offers a range of effective treatments tailored to your individual needs. You don’t have to simply endure the discomfort.
Possible treatment options include:
- Desensitizing Toothpaste: Specially formulated toothpastes can help block the transmission of sensations from the tooth surface to the nerve. Best Dental can recommend the most suitable type for you.
- Fluoride Treatment: Professional fluoride application at our Houston office can help strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.
- Dental Bonding or Sealants: In cases of exposed root surfaces, a dental bonding agent or sealant can be applied to cover the sensitive areas.
- Gum Grafting: If gum recession is the primary cause, a gum graft may be recommended to cover the exposed root and reduce sensitivity.
- Addressing Underlying Issues: If a cavity, cracked tooth, or worn filling is to blame, restoring the tooth with a filling, crown, or other appropriate restoration will typically resolve the sensitivity. For issues like teeth grinding, a custom nightguard can protect your teeth from further wear.
- Root Canal Therapy: In cases where the cold sensitivity is severe, persistent, and indicates that the tooth’s nerve is irreversibly inflamed (a condition known as irreversible pulpitis), a root canal may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the damaged pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and then filling and sealing it. A root canal can save the tooth and eliminate the pain associated with severe nerve inflammation. Best Dental’s skilled dentists perform root canal therapy with a focus on patient comfort.
Preventing Future Pain: Tips from Your Houston Dental Experts
Beyond treating existing sensitivity, the team at Best Dental is committed to helping you prevent future discomfort. Adopting good oral hygiene practices is key:
- Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush twice a day.
- Floss daily to remove plaque from between teeth and under the gumline.
- Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Limit acidic foods and beverages. If you do consume them, rinse your mouth with water afterward.
- Don’t skip your regular dental checkups and cleanings at Best Dental. These visits allow us to catch potential problems early before they lead to sensitivity or other issues.
If you’re experiencing tooth pain when drinking cold beverages, don’t wait for it to worsen. Contact Best Dental in Houston, TX, today. We’re here to provide expert diagnosis, effective treatment, and compassionate care to get you back to enjoying all your favorite drinks without the pain.
If You Are Having Cold Teeth Sensitivity In Houston, TX Contact Our Team Today!
We look forward to hearing from you.
