If you wince with pain after sipping a hot cup of coffee or chewing a piece of ice, chances are that you suffer from "dentin hypersensitivity," or more commonly, sensitive teeth.
Hot and cold temperature changes cause your teeth to expand and contract. Over time, your teeth can develop microscopic cracks that allow these sensations to seep through to the nerves. Exposed areas of the tooth can cause pain and even affect or change your eating, drinking and breathing habits.
At least 45 million adults in the United States suffer at some time from sensitive teeth.
Sensitive teeth result when the underlying layer of your teeth (the dentin) becomes exposed. This can happen on the chewing surface of the tooth as well as at the gum line. In some cases, sensitive teeth are the result of gum disease, years of unconsciously clenching or grinding your teeth, or improper or too vigorous brushing (if the bristles of your toothbrush are pointing in multiple directions, you're brushing too hard).
Abrasive toothpastes are sometimes the culprit of sensitive teeth. Ingredients found in some whitening toothpastes that lighten and/or remove certain stains from enamel, and sodium pyrophosphate, the key ingredient in tartar-control toothpastes, may increase tooth sensitivity.
In some cases, desensitizing toothpaste, sealants, desensitizing ionization and filling materials including fluoride, and decreasing the intake of acid-containing foods can alleviate some of the pain associated with sensitive teeth.
Sometimes, a sensitive tooth may be confused by a patient for a cavity or abscess that is not yet visible.
In any case, contact your dentist if you notice any change in your teeth's sensitivity to temperature.
Patient Rights
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Some cases of acute periodontal (gum) disease that do not respond to more conventional treatment and self-care such as flossing may require a special kind of cleaning called scaling and root planing.
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"Very clean and wanted to make sure I was safe. One person helped me along with the doctor so I didn’t interact with many people. Friendly warm and welcoming. Great report no cavities."
Deborah Talley
"One of my crowns broke off… I was hoping just to get it glued back on, but unfortunately I had to go get a root canal and then go back to get a post put in and the crown back on. They were able to get me into a specialist the next day and then the following day back to the dentist. Entire staff very professional and caring. If you are in need of a new dentist go to GC Dental Arts you won’t be disappointed. Thank you for taking such good care of all of your clients. Highly recommend them."
Chris Davis
"This place is top-notch I had my appointment I don't know if it's during or after pandemic started on May 20th. I was treated as if I was going into a surgical procedure. Went straight from my car to the exam room where I sterilized my mouth with a peroxide water mixture, and the hygienist was covered from head to toe to do my cleaning. They are a great place with a great staff and amazing doctors. Don't hesitate to book an appointment with them!"
Gina Nowack
"Caring, honest, excellent service. Referred by a friend and have been very pleased with my visits since I became a patient last year. Highly recommend this office"
Vivian Campbell
"he staff here was wonderful and made me feel right at home. They were quick and thorough and I was very pleased with the level of service I received. I would highly recommend this Dentist!!!"
Jeff Roberts
"I have been with Gc dental arts for awhile now and every time I go it’s a great experience. The staff do a good job and Gc dental arts did very well with their preparations and safety during COVID-19 outbreak. I would highly recommend giving them a try."
Zachary Judd
"Great service! Clean, honest and friendly. They do not overbook so don’t have to wait pass your appointment time."
Kruskaya Urbina
"They did a really good job. Love the people and atmosphere."
Deborah Judd
"The staff is too notch taking all the necessary precautions. It was nice to see then and be treated so well."
Cristine Lybbert
"I’m one of those people who are not fans of dental visits but Dr Gulle and his staff are very caring and knowledgeable. Starting with the front office and his assistants, they insure you are comfortable and welcome. I just recommended him to my daughter and would highly recommend to others."
Mary Beth Scanlon
"The staff was pleasant and professional. Was able to get the needed help in a timely manner."
Joseph
"The hygienist was very good and explain everything."
Odrys
"Thank you for the excellent service, as usual, by Gabby and Dr. Joe Gulle. Thank you also for the toothbrushes you donated for our medical mission."
