When to See a Periodontist About Gum Sensitivity
Posted on February 29, 2024
Gum sensitivity can be a disruptive and often painful condition that affects many aspects of daily life, from what you can eat and drink to how you brush your teeth. It's a common issue that plagues many people. While sensitivity can sometimes be mild and manageable, it can still be a sign of more serious dental problems. Understanding when to seek the expertise of a periodontist near you like Dr. Adam Ohayon at The Perio Centre is crucial in addressing gum sensitivity effectively and preventing further oral health issues.
When you’re struggling with gum sensitivity or other periodontal ailments, the expertise of a periodontist will help with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, the placement of dental implants, and more. Our experts at The Perio Centre, in the treatment of oral inflammation, including gum sensitivity, can offer treatments aimed at gum regeneration and maintaining your oral health.
Understanding Gum Sensitivity
Gum sensitivity occurs when the gums become swollen, tender, or painful in response to stimuli such as hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. It can also make daily oral hygiene routines uncomfortable. This sensitivity is often due to the thinning or recession of gums, exposing the roots of your teeth.
Conditions That Could Cause Gum Sensitivity
Several conditions can lead to gum sensitivity, each requiring a specialized approach for treatment:
- Gingivitis: The earliest stage of gum disease, characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily. If left untreated, it can advance to periodontitis.
- Periodontitis: A more advanced form of gum disease that affects the bones and tissues supporting the teeth, leading to gum recession and sensitivity.
- Receding Gums: This condition exposes the roots of your teeth, making them more susceptible to sensitivity.
- Tooth Decay or Cavities: Decay close to the gum line can also cause sensitivity.
- Clenching or Grinding: These actions can wear down the enamel and lead to sensitivity.
For issues related to gum recession and bone loss, a periodontist near me can offer solutions like gum regeneration techniques, bone grafts, sinus lift, dental implants, and more to restore oral health and functionality, while reducing sensitivity.
Address Sensitivity with Guided Tissue Regeneration
Guided tissue regeneration is a procedure periodontists use to trigger the growth of new bone and gum tissue. It's typically employed when the bone supporting your teeth has been deteriorated by severe gum disease. Guided tissue regeneration involves placing testing and approved biocompatible barriers between the existing bone and the tooth, preventing unwanted tissue from entering the healing area, thus allowing bone and connective tissue to regenerate.
This treatment isolates the area needing regeneration, enabling the body to rebuild the periodontal structures that support the teeth, combating gum disease and preparing the site for further restorative procedures, such as dental implants, by enhancing bone density and gum volume.
Minimize Irritation with Periodontal Flap Surgery
The primary goal of periodontal flap surgery is to remove or reduce periodontal pockets, areas where the gum has pulled away from the teeth, creating spaces susceptible to bacterial infection. During the procedure, your periodontist has direct access to the roots and bone supporting the teeth. This access allows the team to thoroughly clean the roots of the teeth and remove tartar buildup and diseased tissue, which are often inaccessible with non-surgical treatments. As a result there is reduced discomfort, sensitivity, and irritation.
Book a Consultation with a Trusted Periodontist Near You
If you’ve been struggling with persistent oral sensitivity, it may not be your teeth. There could be a deeper rooted issue with your gums. To get the care you need, contact the trusted experts at The Perio Centre. Dr. Adam Ohayon and the team are equipped with years of experience that enables precise and personalized treatment.