Have you ever cringed while drinking ice-cold water or savoring hot coffee? Tooth sensitivity causes discomfort in eating and drinking for millions. Though various treatments are available, many people consider fluoride as a silver lining. Fluoride treatment has always been noted to strengthen the teeth by protecting the enamel, but will it help alleviate the sharp pain associated with tooth sensitivity?
This blog explores how fluoride treatment works, how effective it is, and whether this treatment is right for you.
What is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is caused by the exposure of the dentin, a layer beneath the tooth enamel. This can be brought about by a variety of factors, such as worn-down enamel, gum recession, and grinding of teeth.
When the enamel wears off or gums pull away from the tooth, it exposes tiny tubules that lead to the nerves inside the teeth. As a result, eating hot or cold foods, drinking sweet beverages, or even brushing your teeth may cause sharp discomfort.
The common causes of tooth sensitivity include:
- Worn enamel from the frequent consumption of acidic foods or drinks
- Receding gums that show the roots of the teeth
- Teeth grinding that wears away the enamel
- Tooth decay or cavities
Symptoms of tooth sensitivity include discomfort or pain while consuming hot, cold, sweet, or sour substances. This condition may aggravate if not treated appropriately, as the patient cannot enjoy their favorite food and drinks.
How Fluoride Treatment Works
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral famous for giving strength to tooth enamel and fighting against decay. In fluoride treatment, a concentrated form of fluoride is applied to the teeth directly in the form of gel, foam, or varnish, to renew mineralization and fortify the enamel. The fluoride works by binding with the enamel, strengthening its structure, which makes it more resistant to decay.
Fluoride treatment for tooth sensitivity works by helping to block the exposed tubules in the dentin. These tubules are responsible for transmitting sensations to the nerves inside the tooth. Fluoride helps by forming a protective barrier over the dentin, reducing sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli.
The dental professional typically starts the fluoride treatment in Spokane by cleaning and drying the teeth. Following the cleaning and drying of the teeth, the fluoride solution is applied, and the patient is asked not to eat or drink for approximately 30 minutes to allow the treatment to be properly absorbed. Depending on the severity of sensitivity, there may be a need for multiple sessions.
Can Fluoride Reduce Tooth Sensitivity?
Fluoride treatments are effective in reducing tooth sensitivity. Research proves that fluoride significantly lowers the nerve response in sensitive teeth, thus relieving sensitivity. In one study, patients treated with fluoride treatment showed noticeable pain reduction even after a few applications. Fluoride acts to strengthen enamel and block the nerve pathways that trigger sensitivity.
Relief from tooth sensitivity with fluoride treatment usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks. However, this timeframe depends on the severity of the sensitivity. Fluoride treatments in Spokane can be very effective for mild to moderate sensitivity and may only take a few applications to produce noticeable relief. More severe sensitivity could take longer.
Fluoride treatments work best for people who have sensitivity due to minor to moderate enamel erosion or gum recession. If the sensitivity is because of an underlying problem, such as cavities or gum disease, fluoride treatments can be used in addition to other, more comprehensive dental treatments. You will need to consult with a dentist, who will recommend the best course of action for your specific case.
Fluoride treatment is one of the effective methods to reduce sensitivity. By strengthening enamel and blocking nerve endings, it provides relief for those who may have mild to moderate sensitivity.
If you are uncomfortable while eating or drinking, this might be the solution you have been searching for. Consult our dentists today to determine whether fluoride treatment is appropriate for your dental needs. Don’t let tooth sensitivity keep you from enjoying your favorite foods. Instead, take control over your dental health with fluoride treatment.
FAQs
How can I maintain my results after fluoride treatment?
Maintain good oral hygiene, avoid acidic foods and drinks, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and follow-up fluoride treatments.
Is fluoride treatment recommended for people with braces?
Yes, fluoride treatment is often recommended for individuals with braces to help prevent enamel erosion and reduce sensitivity.
Does fluoride treatment work for teeth with exposed roots?
Yes, fluoride can help reduce sensitivity caused by exposed roots due to gum recession.
How does fluoride block nerve endings?
Fluoride helps to seal the tubules in the dentin, preventing stimuli from reaching the nerves inside the tooth, reducing sensitivity.
Can fluoride treatment help with tooth pain caused by cavities?
Fluoride may help alleviate sensitivity caused by cavities, but it won’t cure the cavity. Dental fillings or other treatments may be needed.
