If you’ve ever felt a sharp sting in your teeth while enjoying an ice-cold drink or a hot cup of coffee, you’re not alone. Tooth sensitivity affects millions of people and can range from occasional discomfort to chronic pain that interferes with your daily life. But while it’s common, it’s not something you have to live with.

At Wasatch Periodontics in Salt Lake City, we understand how tooth sensitivity can affect your comfort and overall dental health. Whether your symptoms are caused by gum recession, enamel erosion, or untreated dental issues, our specialists are here to help you find relief through advanced care and precise diagnostics.

What Is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity, or dentin hypersensitivity, occurs when the tooth’s protective enamel wears down or the gums recede, exposing the underlying dentin. Dentin contains microscopic tubules that lead to the tooth’s nerve. When exposed, hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages can stimulate the nerve, causing sharp, sudden pain.

At our perio office near you in 84124, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating sensitivity, often catching early signs of gum disease or enamel erosion before they escalate.

Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Gum Recession

When the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, the root surface becomes exposed. Since roots lack enamel, they are highly susceptible to sensitivity.

Enamel Erosion

Aggressive brushing, acid-heavy diets, or bruxism (teeth grinding) can gradually wear away enamel, exposing the sensitive dentin beneath.

Tooth Decay

Cavities that penetrate enamel allow bacteria and irritants to reach the nerve. If untreated, they can lead to infection and more serious pain.

Dental Procedures

Some people experience temporary sensitivity after professional cleanings, restorations, or oral surgery in Salt Lake City, which typically resolves within days.

Gum Disease

Advanced gum disease can lead to bone loss and gum recession. Our team specializes in periodontics in Salt Lake City and can reverse or manage the condition with customized periodontal care.

When to See a Specialist

Occasional sensitivity may not require immediate attention, but if the pain is persistent, worsening, or interfering with daily activities, it’s time to visit a Salt Lake City periodontist. Left untreated, sensitivity can point to deeper issues like infection, decay, or structural damage.

At Wasatch Periodontics, we offer same day dental care in Salt Lake City for patients needing immediate treatment, ensuring you don’t wait in pain.

How We Treat Tooth Sensitivity at Wasatch Periodontics

Treatment depends on the root cause, but here are some common options:

Fluoride Treatments

Professional fluoride strengthens enamel and reduces pain from exposed dentin.

Dental Bonding

We apply tooth-colored resin to cover exposed roots or areas of enamel erosion, creating a barrier between your tooth and external triggers.

Gum Grafting

For cases involving significant gum recession, our Utah periodontal specialists in Salt Lake City can perform gum grafting to restore the gum line and protect tooth roots.

Periodontal Therapy

When gum disease is to blame, we use scaling and root planing, as well as advanced periodontal treatments, to eliminate infection and stabilize gum health.

Dental Implants

If sensitivity is the result of a non-restorable tooth or a failing restoration, we offer dental implants in Salt Lake City as a permanent and functional replacement.

We also provide oral sedation in Salt Lake City for patients who experience dental anxiety during procedures.

Preventing Tooth Sensitivity

• Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
• Limit acidic foods and beverages
• Don’t brush immediately after consuming acidic items
• Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
• Maintain regular dental visits for professional cleanings and checkups

Whether you need routine care or advanced treatment from a periodontist in Utah 84124, our team offers tailored solutions for long-term oral comfort.

Sensitive Teeth? Relief Starts Here

You don’t have to suffer through every sip or bite. Our experienced providers at Wasatch Periodontics are here to diagnose, treat, and resolve your tooth sensitivity so you can live and eat comfortably again.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment with the trusted team in Salt Lake City.