Tooth Sensitivity

What is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is also called “dentin hypersensitivity”. Dentin is the inner layer of a tooth that resides underneath enamel (the area of your tooth you typically see) or underneath cementum (the thin layer covering the root of your tooth). Inside the dentin layer are thousands of tiny tubes that run from the outer dentin surface to the nerve of the tooth. These tubes contain a fluid that, when disturbed, can cause pain and sensitivity.

It has been estimated that over half of the population experiences tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity can come and go over a lifetime. Tooth sensitivity generally occurs from hot and cold drinks and foods, acidic foods, or even breathing in cold air when outside during winter months.

There are many causes of tooth sensitivity including, but not limited to:
-Periodontal Disease
-Tooth fractures from grinding, or biting on hard objects
-Acid diets
-Bulimia
-Gastric disorders
-Tooth Decay
-Even excessive brushing of teeth

If you have sensitive teeth it is imperative you tell us at Thorup Dental during your regular cleanings and exams. If tooth sensitivity is experienced in between regular dental appointments, please don’t wait. Please call our office right away for an appointment as it may turn into something more serious by the time you see us for your regular visit.

Treatments for tooth sensitivity may include:
-Desensitizing toothpastes
-Fluoride treatments
-Tooth varnishes
-Severe cases may include restorations such as fillings, crowns, and even root canal therapy to stop the discomfort

We will always attempt to treat your situation with the least invasive procedure first. 90% of the time, desensitizing toothpastes and fluoride varnishes will stop tooth sensitivity. The other 10% of teeth with sensitivity are often times just to damaged and will require restorative procedures to stop the discomfort, and even a small percentage of those teeth are not able to recover, and may require removal.

Now that you better understand the problems with tooth sensitivity, the most important thing for you is to do your best in maintaining excellent oral health through proper brushing and flossing each day. Of course, seeing us at Thorup Dental twice a year for regular exams and dental cleanings is critical to maintaining your oral health.
Thank you for allowing all of us at Thorup Dental to be an integral part of your oral health care.

Sincerely,

Dr. Rob Thorup, DDS
Thorup Dental

Periodontal Disease and You

The best treatment for periodontal disease is to prevent it from even happening. Brushing and flossing twice a day, with regular dental cleanings and exams are very important to the prevention of periodontal disease.

If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, please understand premature tooth loss may not be your only problem or concern. Periodontal disease may also be linked to other health problems.

Heart Disease
Several studies have shown periodontal disease is associated with heart disease. While the exact cause/effect relationship has not currently been identified, research has indicated that periodontal disease increases the risk of heart disease.

Stroke
Additional studies have pointed to a relationship between periodontal disease and stroke.

Diabetes
Diabetic patients are more likely to develop periodontal disease, and periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar.

Systemic Diseases
Research has shown periodontal disease may be linked to osteoporosis due to loss in bone density.
Research has also shown bacteria that causes periodontal disease can be aspirated into the lungs causing lung diseases such as pneumonia.
And lastly, researchers found that patients with gum disease were 49% more likely to develop kidney cancer, 54% more likely to develop pancreatic cancer, and 30% more likely to develop blood cancers.

Periodontal Disease Treatment Management

The treatment of periodontal disease is generally a process. After we complete a comprehensive periodontal evaluation, which includes evaluating the bone and soft tissues around your teeth, my hygienists and I will determine whether periodontal disease is present or not.

If periodontal disease is present in your mouth, our dental team will provide you with the necessary treatment which may/will consist of:

-Scaling and Root Planning (extensive cleaning of the teeth)
-Antibiotic therapies directly/indirectly placed between the teeth and gums
-Laser periodontal therapy
-Oral mouth rinse and instructions
-Educational training of periodontal disease processes and their prevention
-Home care tactics and strategies

It is imperative you follow the home care instructions you will be given, as the cessation of periodontal disease is a team approach by both the patient and dental team.

If the periodontal disease process is not completely reversed, other treatment modalities may need to be implemented, such as gum and bone surgery to maintain the bone structure surrounding the tooth root, thus improving your oral health.
However, most patients respond well to periodontal disease treatment management procedures, thus preventing the need for periodontal surgery.

Good Oral Health Begins With You

We want all of our awesome patients to have healthy mouths. We know that great oral health care can also benefit your overall health. Oral health takes a team, and it starts with you. Brushing and flossing morning and night, regular dental cleanings and exams, and healthy eating is critical to good oral health care.

Thank you for allowing us to be part of your oral health team!

Sincerely,
Your Team at Thorup Dental
Dr. Rob, Chelsie, Jenna, Kirsten, and Nichelle
www.thorupdental.com