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Treating Sensitive Teeth

Treating Sensitive Teeth at
The Dental Co. Bloemfontein

A root canal doesn’t have to be something you dread. At The Dental Co. Bloemfontein, we prioritise your comfort and peace of mind throughout the process. From the moment you arrive, our team ensures a calm and supportive environment, using modern techniques and precise care to make your treatment as smooth as possible. With our expertise in pain-free endodontics, our goal is to alleviate infection, relieve discomfort, restore function, and help you keep your natural tooth for years to come

Understanding Root Canal Treatment

Endodontic (root canal) treatment is a specialised procedure designed to save a tooth that has been severely infected or damaged. Instead of extracting the tooth, the infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned, sealed, and restored.


Why is a root canal necessary?

  • It prevents tooth loss, maintaining your natural smile.
  • It eliminates pain and infection, stopping it from spreading to surrounding teeth.
  • It restores function, allowing you to chew and speak comfortably.
  • Modern techniques make the procedure efficient and pain-free, avoiding the discomfort associated with older methods.

Signs You May Need Root Canal Treatment

Dental Symptoms Table
Severe tooth pain, especially when chewing
Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold
Swollen or tender gums near the affected tooth
Tooth discolouration or darkening
Recurring abscesses or pimples on the gums

The Impact of Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) on Sensitivity

How Bruxism Causes Sensitivity

  • Grinding and clenching wear down enamel, exposing the sensitive dentine layer.
  • Excessive pressure leads to small fractures in the tooth structure, triggering pain.
  • Grinding wears down enamel, exposing the underlying dentine and roots. The roots are vulnerable to decay, sensitivity and infection which lead to gum irritation and gum recession

Signs You May Have Bruxism

  • Morning jaw pain or tightness.
  • Flattened, chipped, or worn-down teeth.
  • Headaches or ear pain without a clear cause.
  • Increased tooth sensitivity, particularly in the morning.

Our Approach to Treating Sensitive Teeth

At The Dental Co., we follow a six-step approach to treating tooth sensitivity, addressing both the symptoms and the underlying cause:

  1. Comprehensive Diagnosis

    We assess your teeth and gums to determine the exact cause of your sensitivity.
  2. Strengthening Enamel
    Professional fluoride treatments and desensitising agents help reinforce and protect enamel.

  3. Restorative Solutions

    Fillings, bonding, or crowns are used to repair decay, cracks, or worn enamel that may be contributing to sensitivity.
  4. Bruxism Treatment
    Custom night guards and bite adjustments help prevent further enamel wear caused by grinding and clenching
  5. Ongoing Prevention
    We provide expert advice on toothpaste, brushing techniques, and lifestyle adjustments to maintain long-term relief.

Why Choose The Dental Co. for Sensitivity Treatment?

  • Gentle, patient-focused care for long-term relief.
  • Advanced diagnostics to determine the exact cause.
  • Custom treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.
  • Comprehensive solutions from enamel protection to restorative care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sudden sensitivity can be caused by recent dental treatments, enamel erosion, cavities, or gum recession. A dental exam can determine the cause.

While sensitivity can be effectively managed, the permanence of relief depends on the cause. Protective treatments, lifestyle changes, and restorations can significantly reduce discomfort.

Desensitising toothpastes containing potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride can help reduce sensitivity by protecting exposed dentine.

Limiting acidic, sugary, and extremely hot or cold foods can help reduce discomfort and prevent further enamel erosion.

Signs of bruxism include jaw pain, headaches, flattened teeth, and morning tooth sensitivity. A night guard can help protect your teeth from further damage.

While enamel loss cannot be naturally reversed, treatments such as fluoride application, bonding, or custom night guards can protect and restore affected teeth.

Yes, a neuromodulator (the same used for anti-wrinkle treatments) is injected into the masseter muscle (the large jaw muscle responsible for clenching and grinding). This reduces muscle activity, helping to relax the jaw and decrease excessive grinding and clenching.