Dental Tips from Elizabeth Chaloupek, DDS - 580-233-1420
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Are hot and cold foods and drinks sometimes a painful experience for you? Does brushing or flossing make your teeth hurt occasionally? If so, you may have sensitive teeth. Possible causes include:
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Tooth decay (cavities)
Fractured teeth
Worn fillings
Gum disease
Worn tooth enamel
Exposed tooth root
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In addition to enamel and cementum, your teeth are made up of dentin. Dentin is less dense than enamel and cementum and contains small hollow tubes or canals. When dentin loses its protective covering of enamel or cementum these tubules allow heat and cold or acidic or sticky foods to reach the nerves and cells inside the tooth. The result can be hypersensitivity.
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You don't have to live in pain though, sensitive teeth can be treated. The type of treatment will depend on what is causing the sensitivity. Your dentist may suggest one of a variety of treatments:
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Desensitizing toothpaste
Fluoride gel
A crown, inlay or bonding
Surgical gum graft
Root canal
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Taking good care of your teeth is the key to preventing sensitive-tooth pain. Your dentist can give you an effective daily oral hygiene routine that can prevent tooth sensitivity.
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Taking New Patients
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This dental tip is presented by Dr. Elizabeth Chaloupek & the crew at The Dental Practice at Enid & Fairview, 1420 W. Garriott #3. They are taking new patients and love seeing families! Call for an appointment 580-233-1420. www.enidsmiles.com.
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