Tooth sensitivity (or dentin hypersensitivity) is a widespread dental issue that affects millions of people as suggested by a dentist in Concord, NC. This may cause pain when consuming hot or cold food and drinks, as well as sweet juices such as acid beverages. Learning the causes, prevention tips and treatment methods for sensitive teeth can help in better management of this condition and overall improvement in oral health.
What is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity happens when tooth enamel, the protective outer covering of your teeth, is worn away or if a crack develops in a tooth and exposes dentin. Nerve endings plugged in microscopic tubules exist within the dentin. If these tubules are exposed to certain stimuli like temperature variations or acidic substances, they can incite pain and discomfort.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity can be caused by multiple factors, such as:
Enamel Erosion:
The enamel is the tough outermost layer of a tooth. Over time this erodes enamel and exposes the dentin, which is quite similar to acid-carved limes.
Gum Recession:
The roots of the teeth, which are much more sensitive to cold and hot than their surface enamel counterparts, become exposed due to receding gums as a result of gum disease, improper brushing techniques, or aging. They are more about sensitivity because the roots do not have any enamel protection.
Tooth Decay and Cavities:
When cavities and tooth decay reach the depth of enamel to dentin could trigger sensitivity.
Brushing Habits:
Brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too heavily, leads to the erosion of enamel and gum recession (which can all cause sensitivity).
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism):
Enamel may wear away, or part of the tooth root can become exposed due to grinding your teeth.
Dental Procedures:
Your teeth may be sensitive for a short time to recent dental treatments such as fillings, crowns, or tooth whitening.
Cracked or Chipped Teeth:
When cracks or chips occur in teeth, dentin gets exposed and can cause sensitivity.
Acid Reflux:
Stomach acid from conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can reach the mouth, wear down enamel, and increase sensitivity.
Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
- A sensation of having a jolt of electric comet:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet or acidic foods and drinks
- Pain while brushing or flossing
- We want the sensitivity that ebbs and flows, over a lifetime.
How to Avoid Sensitive Teeth
The following tips can reduce the chances of suffering from tooth sensitivity:
Proper Brushing Techniques:
Opt for a brush with soft bristles and make sure to perform the technique in circular motions, aiming diligently to prevent any kind of tooth enamel wear or gingival recession if informal.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste:
When we drink fluoride taken with water, it fortifies the tooth enamel as well as reduces sensitivity. Use toothpaste which is especially designed for sensitive teeth.
Restrict Acid Foods and Drinks:
Eat less acidic foods and drinks. If you do eat them, rinse your mouth with water afterward to neutralize the acids.
Avoid Teeth Grinding:
One option is to wear a nightguard if like many people, you grind your teeth.
Regular Dental Check-ups:
Regular dental cleanings and check-ups will help you identify and treat any oral health problems at an early stage.
Solution to Sensitive Teeth
Here are the treatment options to effectively deal with tooth sensitivity:
Desensitizing Toothpaste:
Desensitizing toothpastes available over the counter are useful for blocking the transmission of pain signals from a sensitive surface on a tooth to a nerve. Regularly you will use it, give the best result.
Fluoride Treatments:
These include fluoride varnish or gel to strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity, applied by your dentist.
Dental Bonding:
Dental bonding can be used to repair broken enamel or exposed root surfaces to shield the dentin and lessen pain.
Gum Grafting:
When gum recession is the cause of sensitivity, a graft can cover exposed roots and protect the tooth.
Root Canal Therapy:
In extreme circumstances, where sensitivity is caused by severe decay or damage, a root canal may be necessary to remove the affected nerve.
Mouthguards:
Dental mouthguards can be prepared and they correctly position your teeth from contact with each other while you sleep, protecting your enamel from grinding or clenching.
Tooth sensitivity is a very common dental problem that disrupts one’s daily life and affects oral health. The identification of the etiology and presentation of tooth sensitivity is paramount to implementing effective preventive and management strategies. Tooth sensitivity can be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene, adopting healthy habits, and regularly visiting the dentist so problems are detected early before leading to cavities. She notes that if you have persistent or severe tooth sensitivity, it is important to see a dentist to find out the underlying cause and get treated.