Tooth sensitivity is a phenomenon that is caused by the exposure of the dentin in your teeth. The dentin is the part of your tooth that is under the enamel, and separates the enamel from the nerves. When the dentin is exposed, either by the recession of gums, or the wearing down of enamel, sensations of hot and cold can reach the nerves, causing a feeling of pain. If you feel pain when drinking a hot cup of coffee or chomping down on a cold popsicle, you might have sensitive teeth.

Can I treat tooth sensitivity?

The simple answer is, “Yes.” There are many ways to take care of sensitive teeth – some options you can use at home, while others will require you to see your local dentist.

Desensitizing toothpaste: Probably the most common and popular solution, toothpaste made specifically for people with sensitive teeth is a good option for mild cases. It’s important that you use a fluoridated toothpaste rather than a tatar one. We recommend Fluoridex or Prevident that you can purchase at your dental office or Sensodyne that you can purchase at your nearest Walgeens, Rite Aid, or Meijer.

Fluoridated rinse: Using a fluoridated rinse daily can also lessen the effects of sensitivity. Your dentist should be able to give you some helpful recommendations on what brands are right for you.

Watch what you eat: Some foods that are highly acidic or full of sugars are best to avoid. Stay away from carbonated beverages and opt for water instead.

Observe good oral hygiene: Above all, it is most important that you keep up on your oral hygiene routine. This means regular flossing, brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and ensuring that you brush effectively. Some causes of tooth sensitivity can be taken care of with just these small adjustments.

What if those methods don’t work?

If your tooth sensitivity persists, it’s best to talk to your dentist. He or she might have other recommendations for you, and there are a few procedures they can conduct in office like dentin sealers, fluoride varnishes, or white fillings that cover the exposed roots of your teeth.

Great teeth and gum care start at home. Brushing and flossing on a daily basis is the best way to take care of your teeth and gums on a continual basis.   By keeping to a daily routine you will greatly minimize the risk of gingivitis or tooth decay as you age.

Gingivitis is a condition caused when bacteria surrounds the teeth and enters the gums.  The gums can become irritated, inflamed and often bleed.  In order to prevent the condition from worsening, regular hygiene visits are highly recommended.  During your visit, our Hygiene team will teach you proper flossing techniques and the Oral Hygiene protocol for Home Care that will help to prevent the onset of Periodontal Disease.

Periodontal Disease is a quiet disease that begins with little or no symptoms.  It is caused by bacteria that surrounds the teeth and enters the gums.  The immediate condition is known as ‘gingivitis’.  The gums become irritated, inflamed and often bleed.  If not properly treated, the condition worsens.  Noticeable symptoms now appear.  They include:  

• Bad Breath 
• Gum Recession 
• Gum Sensitivity to Acidic Foods 
• Abscesses 
• Tooth Pain 
• Loose Teeth
• Tooth Loss 

Periodontal Disease is a chronic condition that needs immediate attention.  Through a series of Periodontal Cleanings, known as Periodontal Therapy, this condition can be controlled.  Periodontal Surgery is only necessary for severe cases.

Silver Fillings known as Amalgam have been around for decades.  Made from a metal alloy, it was the best restoration for fillings.  The metal expands and contracts with the heat and cold placed in the mouth.  This allowed for little bacteria to enter a tooth once filled; keeping the tooth healthy and strong.

White Fillings, also known as composites are often made of plastic or glass polymers. These cosmetic fillings allow us to fill a cavity with a substance that will look and feel just like your existing tooth structure.  This restoration is created with a resin material and bonds to the tooth to help prevent decay.  Rather than a gray or silver material in your mouth, the composite color will match the tooth color.

There are several ways in today’s Dental World to enhance your smile.  Certain procedures include:   

• Tooth Whitening 
• Orthodontic Treatment 
• Porcelain Veneers 
• Porcelain Crowns 

We have the capability to improve your smile using all or some of these procedures. For a personal consultation, please contact our office so that we may provide you with a customized treatment plan.

Tooth Whitening is a cost effective and safe procedure to create a beautiful, healthy smile.  Over the years, fluoride has been added to the whitening product.  This reduces the risk of tooth and gum sensitivity.  

Tooth Whitening must be monitored by your dentist and only done after a comprehensive exam and hygiene cleaning.

The whitening process can last for a number of years if maintained properly.  Beverages such as coffee, tea, cola and wine will reduce the lasting effect.  Remember, if it could stain a white shirt, it will stain your smile!

Porcelain Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that go directly on your natural teeth. This entire procedure can take as few as two visits.   Veneers change the size, shape and color of a patient’s teeth.  This procedure is used to repair chipped teeth, teeth darkened by age or medication, or a crooked smile.  Many times, patients ask for Porcelain Veneers to simply feel and look younger with a straighter, whiter smile!

Crowns are a restorative procedure that covers the entire tooth protecting the integrity of the natural tooth structure..  It will change the size, shape and color of the teeth in as few as 2 visits. 

A Dental Implant is a “man-made” replacement for a missing tooth or tooth root.  Made from titanium, this screw-like object is inserted under the gum and directly into the upper or lower jaw bone.  There is usually minimal discomfort involved with this procedure.  After a period of a few months, the Dental Implant and the bone fuse together.  This creates an anchor for the new tooth to be placed onto the dental implant. 

• Dental Implants look and function like your natural tooth. 
• Dental Implants can be a long-term solution for missing teeth. 
• Dental Implants are maintained by routine hygiene visits to your dental office. 
• Dental Implants decrease the possibility of bone loss, periodontal disease,  tooth movement, and further tooth loss. 
• Dental Implants replace the need for a Removable Full or Partial Denture.  
• Dental Implants focus only on the tooth or teeth that are missing.  A traditional bridge would involve the two or more adjacent teeth being compromised to create a false tooth in between.

With major advancements in Dentistry and Dental Implants, most people are candidates for Dental Implants.  There may be exceptions, including chronic illness, heart disease, and severe osteoporosis.  

The average Dental Implant Procedure takes 3 - 4 visits.  The first visit is to x-ray the area and take an impression for a surgical guide and a temporary prosthesis to cover the Implant.  

The next visit is to place the Implant. A local anesthesia is applied to the area.  (Any additional sedation is no longer necessary unless deemed by the dentist).   The dentist will then make a minor incision to place the implant. The implant is placed into the jaw bone.  The area will then be covered with sutures.  The procedure is usually completed with minor pain.

You will next return in approximately 3 months to begin creating the Porcelain Crown to place over the Implant.

Fees from Dental Implants vary from dentist to dentist.  Always schedule an Implant Consultation to discuss the procedure and all fees involved.

With routine dental hygiene scheduled and proper home care, a Dental Implant can last approximately 30 years to a lifetime.

Please contact us to discuss the options we have available to make your perfect smile today! 

Yes! We are currently accepting new patients. You can call us at (616-842-4480) to schedule your first appointment. Or you can click on the request appointment link and we will contact you to get you scheduled at your earliest convenience.