Treatment for sensitive teeth

There is more than one form of treatment for sensitive teeth although this very much depends on the cause. Common causes of sensitive teeth are tooth decay, gum disease, exposed dentin (variety of reasons) and cracked/chipped teeth.

There are three treatment options which are:

Each of these is discussed in greater detail within this guide.

Other forms of treatment include fillings; root planing, root canal surgery, veneers and crowns.

Sensitive teeth: treatment for tooth decay

Fillings are a common form of treatment for tooth decay, damaged or chipped teeth. If you have tooth decay then your dentist will recommend that you have a filling.

A filling acts as a sealant for a decayed tooth and prevents the decay from spreading throughout the rest of the tooth. There is the silver amalgam filling which most people are familiar with and the newer tooth coloured filling.

Sensitive teeth: treatment for gum disease

Gum disease is another cause of sensitive teeth. There are two types of gum disease and the type you have will determine what treatment you receive. These include gingivitis and periodontitis.

Treatment options include root planing, antibiotics, scale and polish and in severe cases, surgery.

Sensitive teeth: treatment for exposed dentin

A common cause of sensitive teeth is exposed dentin: the dentin is the middle layer of a tooth which sits underneath the enamel. If the enamel has worn down then the dentin becomes exposed which causes pain and discomfort or sensitive teeth.

Your dentist will seal the gap between the tooth and the gum line which will hide the exposed dentin.

Sensitive teeth: treatment for a cracked tooth

Teeth can be chipped, cracked or broken which leaves them vulnerable to infection. This infection then causes a range of symptoms which include sensitive teeth.

The dentist will repair a cracked tooth by fitting a veneer, a crown or composite bonding. Composite bonding is the name given to a putty-like material which is applied to a broken tooth. This material is white coloured so that it will match the rest of your teeth.

Fluoride gels and rinses