Tooth sensitivity causes a great deal of discomfort, especially when drinking extremely hot or cold beverages. There are only a few things that cause this condition. While sensitive teeth in Chester, NJ may be a result of whitening products or brushing your teeth too aggressively, the most common source is gum recession.

What is Gum Recession?

The gum tissue that protects your teeth can become infected or damaged, and begin to recede from the teeth. When the tissue is worn down or shrinks away from the teeth, it is referred to as gum recession. Receding gums may be caused by the following:

• Gum disease

• Smoking/Tobacco Use

• Bruxism (grinding your teeth)

• Oral Piercings

• Aggressive tooth brushing or flossing

Gum disease is the leading source of gum recession and is typically accompanied by additional symptoms, such as bleeding gums, soft tissue inflammation, bad breath, widened periodontal pockets, loose teeth, and jaw bone loss. If your gum recession is caused by periodontal disease, your dentist will recommend treatment to clear the oral infection before restoring your gum tissue.

How Periodontal Treatment Can Help

Gum tissue will not grow back on its own so your exposed, sensitive teeth will remain that way indefinitely or worsen, without treatment. One of the most common treatments, gum grafting, utilizes your own periodontal tissue as donor tissue, relocating it to the area of receding gums. The benefits of restoring gum tissue far outweigh any minor discomfort or scheduling inconvenience of oral surgery. Dr. Thomas Bissell’s patients enjoy less tooth sensitivity but also a healthier, more beautiful smile after gum grafting.

If you would like Dr. Bissell to determine the source of your sensitive teeth in Chester, NJ, please call our office at your earliest convenience. A simple consultation can change the way you look and feel.