Tooth sensitivity affects the daily lives of a large number of people worldwide. If you feel some momentary discomfort or a sharp penetrating pain when you drink something cold or hot, when you brush your teeth, or even when you inhale cold air, then you have tooth sensitivity.
What is the cause?
Exposed dentin (part of the teeth) to the external environment of the mouth and various thermal stimuli.
Dentin contains a large number of pores (or tubes) that start on the outside of a tooth and end in its nerve. Under normal circumstances, the dentin is protected and covered by the enamel and the gums, but the enamel may become thinner and the gums may recede, leaving it exposed, resulting in pain.
This can be caused by:
- Caries
- Heavy brushing pressure or a hard bristle toothbrush
- Gingivitis and periodontitis
- Bruxism (teeth grinding and jaw clenching)
- Tooth fractures
- Acidic foods & beverages, such as frequent soft drink consumption
What can I do?
The first thing you can do to treat tooth sensitivity is to identify the causes – your Dentist can help you with this. If the sensitivity is due to exposed dentin, there are some steps you and your dentist can take to reduce sensitivity. These include:
- Using a very soft toothbrush
- Proper brushing to prevent enamel abrasion and receding gums.
Do not neglect your problem and visit your dentist immediately.
- Applying fluoride varnish to sensitive areas to help strengthen the tooth
- Offering you special formulations, specialised for your case.
- Placing some dental restoration on the areas that have lost their enamel
- Endodontic treatment