Common Causes of Dental Hypersensitivity
By John Mecca | Published on March 3, 2011 | 0 Comments
Dental hypersensitivity is a serious problem that plagues many people. Dr. John D. Mecca, D.D.S. PC, a dentist in New Hartford, New York, says that almost all types of dental hypersensitivity issues boil down to one main cause: root exposure.
When a person suffers from root exposure, he has a high likelihood of developing dental hypersensitivity. As such, Dr. Mecca says that root exposure has been proven to be the primary reason why otherwise healthy adult patients suffer from sensitivity issues.
Luckily, there are several things that a dentist can use to combat dental hypersensitivity. From in-office fluoride treatments to desensitizing pastes that can be applied at home, Dr. Mecca offers the assurance that there is a way to cure just about anyone’s case of dental hypersensitivity.
Before moving on to the potential remedies for this type of painful condition, however, Dr. Mecca says that it’s important to determine what is causing the sensitivity to begin with. Root exposure can be caused by many things, and it’s important to determine what is causing the root exposure before trying to treat the problem.
The most common cause of root exposure is gum disease, but other potential culprits could be overly aggressive brushing or the natural process of aging. People who use improper brushing techniques can easily scrub too hard along the gum line, causing the roots to become exposed and slight sensitivities to occur. Dr. Mecca says that this is the easiest problem to fix, since patients just need to be re-taught about proper technique when it comes to oral care. Additionally, electric toothbrushes with soft bristle heads are another good idea for anyone who has been known to brush too aggressively.
If root sensitivity is being caused by the natural process of aging, then that is something that is harder to combat. In such cases, Dr. Mecca recommends getting the gums in the best condition possible and then skipping ahead to finding a remedy for the pain or sensitivity itself.
At his practice in New Hartford, Dr. Mecca is a dentist who offers in-office fluoride treatments. He also carries a product that can be painted on patients’ teeth to help alleviate some sensitivity. As far as at-home products go, Dr. Mecca and his staff can prescribe various pastes that can be applied to the teeth on a regular basis to reduce pain and discomfort. More important than the various ways to get rid of sensitivity, however, is getting to the bottom of the situation and determine what the root source of the dental hypersensitivity really is.
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.