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Exposed nerves in teeth are among the most common oral health problems. If the layers of tooth protection, such as enamel or dentin, are damaged, the nerves in the teeth may be at risk of exposure. When this happens, it may lead to increased sensitivity.
Knowing why exposed nerves are a problem can help in preventing further complications. Reasons for such nerves include tooth decay, gum recession, and injury. This blog will help you learn why identifying the symptoms can be effective in fixing unprotected nerves before they cause further problems with your teeth.
What Are Exposed Nerves in Teeth?
The tooth has layers consisting of enamel, dentin, and pulp. Enamel forms the outer hard part of the tooth. It lies above the dentin. Pulp, which consists of nerves and blood vessels, forms the central part of the tooth. If the enamel erodes or the dentin deteriorates, the nerves in the pulp chamber get exposed. This may lead to pain and sensitivity.
You may have trouble enjoying any food or drink that is too hot, too cold, or even too sweet. If you are facing one of these issues, it is essential to seek an immediate consultation with your dentist in Decatur.
Common Reasons Behind Exposed Nerves
Exposed nerves in teeth can occur for several reasons, each a consequence of a different aspect of the protective layers that cover a tooth. Below are some common reasons for unprotected nerves in teeth and how they can cause sensitivity and pain:
1. Tooth Decay (Cavities)
One source of exposed nerves is tooth decay. Bacteria accumulate in the mouth, which ultimately erodes the tooth enamel. As the cavity develops, it allows bacteria to access the tooth’s pulp, eventually reaching the nerves.
2. Gum Recession
Gum recession is a normal process that occurs when we age. As soon as the gums in our mouth feel the pull to move away from the teeth, they can expose the roots of our teeth, which are very sensitive.
3. Cracked or Chipped Teeth
A cracked, chipped, or broken tooth can result from several conditions and activities, such as an accident or biting down too much on hard objects, like a hard apple or carrots. When a tooth is damaged, it can easily expose the nerves inside. This may lead to pain and tooth sensitivity.
4. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Grinding of the teeth is quite common among many people, especially at night. This may lead to the wear down of the enamel. This exposes the nerves and may lead to pain.
5. Trauma or Injury
In the case of a physical trauma like a facial injury or a fall, the teeth may crack, fracture, or even fall out altogether. Sometimes, the trauma can damage the teeth and expose the nerves inside.
6. Acidic Foods and Drinks
Eating too many acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits and juices, soda, and coffee, can wear away tooth enamel. If the enamel on the teeth is damaged or worn away, the nerves inside the teeth may be exposed.
Symptoms of Exposed Nerves
If the nerves in your teeth are exposed, there are several symptoms that may appear as a warning to seek attention as soon as possible:
- Sharp Pain While Eating Hot and Cold Foods: One symptom of damaged nerves is a sharp pain triggered when a patient consumes both hot and cold foods and drinks, because damaged nerves are highly sensitive to both.
- Lingering Pain: Unlike ordinary tooth sensitivity, in which the pain goes away as soon as the source of the problem is removed, in an unprotected nerve injury, the pain lingers.
- Toothache or Chewing Pain: If you have a toothache or chewing pain on one side of your mouth, it may be due to unprotected nerves. Chewing may further irritate your nerves.
- Visible Damage: When you are able to see any damage to your teeth, including chips, breaks, or holes, it can be a sign that your enamel has deteriorated and exposed your nerves.
- Gum Recession: In case your gums start receding, they might expose your roots. The roots lack enamel coverage, which may cause significant discomfort.
How to Protect Your Teeth from the Exposure of Nerves?
Taking care of your teeth means that you will not have nerve exposure. Here are some tips to help you care for your teeth:
- Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride-containing toothpaste and floss once daily to remove plaque to prevent exposure of nerves that could occur due to both cavities and gum disease.
- Limit Acidic Foods: Acidic foods and beverages can weaken tooth enamel. It is advised to avoid citrus fruits, soda, and coffee as much as possible, and to rinse your mouth with water afterward.
- Wear a Night Guard: If you grind your teeth at night, you might want to try a night guard. This will help safeguard your teeth from the grinding pressure and protect your nerves from being exposed.
- Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Excessive brushing with a hard-bristle toothbrush can cause recession and dental enamel erosion. Switch to a soft-bristle brush and reduce brushing force.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Regular dental appointments for cleanings and exams can help detect cavities, gum disease, and other conditions early, preventing nerve exposure and other serious problems.
Treatment for Exposed Nerves
When the nerves are exposed, professional dental care is necessary to avoid further complications. Some of the treatment procedures include:
- Fillings or Bonding: If the exposure is due to a cavity, the dentist may use a filling or bonding material to seal the tooth and prevent nerve irritation.
- Root Canal Treatment: In more serious cases in which the nerve may be infected or the tooth damaged, a root canal may be needed to eliminate the infected tissue and seal the tooth.
- Gum Grafting: For gum recession, gum grafts can be performed to cover exposed roots and prevent further nerve damage.
- Whitening Toothpaste: In cases of mild sensitivity, toothpaste designed for desensitization can help prevent nerve pathways from being stimulated.
- Dental Crowns: If a tooth is damaged or frail, a crown will be placed on it. Also, the crown will prevent exposure of the nerves.
Protecting Your Teeth from Sensitivity
Exposed nerves in teeth are painful and annoying conditions. However, learning more about causes and symptoms enables you to address them before they get out of hand. If you are facing problems with sensitive teeth or know of someone who has unprotected nerves in teeth, do not wait to seek help.
If you notice any symptoms of a dental problem or persistent discomfort from exposed nerves in Decatur, contact us at Druid Hills Dental today to schedule an appointment. Our team is ready to guide you through treatment options and provide personalized care. Remember, early treatment will help you prevent more severe issues in the future and get you back to comfort.
What Decatur Patients Ask Their Dentist Most Often
1. Can exposed nerves in teeth heal on their own?
Exposed nerves do not typically heal on their own. Once the enamel is worn away or the gum tissue recedes, the nerve becomes vulnerable to infection. Professional treatment is necessary to prevent further damage.
2. How can I reduce pain from exposed nerves?
You can use desensitizing toothpaste to help reduce pain. Avoid consuming hot or cold foods, and consider using a soft-bristled toothbrush to minimize irritation.
3. Can exposed nerves lead to tooth loss?
If left untreated, exposed nerves can lead to severe infection, potentially resulting in tooth loss. Prompt treatment is essential to protect the tooth and avoid complications.
4. How long will the pain last if I have an exposed nerve?
Pain from an exposed nerve can last as long as the nerve is exposed. Once treated, the pain should subside. However, if untreated, the pain can worsen and become chronic.
5. Is a root canal always necessary for exposed nerves?
Not always. A root canal is typically needed if the nerve becomes infected or if the tooth is severely damaged. Less severe cases may only require fillings, bonding, or desensitizing treatments.
