K BHAGWANDIN
INTRODUCTION
Sensitivity is defined as a short, sharp pain arising from exposed dentin in response to stimuli-hot/cold foods and beverages.
If you experience any sharp ,painful sensation as described above ,you may have dental sensitivity. We’re going to discuss how it happens and how you can fix it.
Why are my teeth so sensitive?
In order for us to understand why sensitivity occurs, it’s important to understand how your teeth are shaped. Teeth are made up of enamel-covers the crown surface and cementum which covers the root surface-both serve to protect the tanner layer layer of dentin-which has vital tissues and is capable of responding to various stimuli – such as hot/cold beverages or food.
Dentin also protects the pulp -which contains blood vessels and nerves. When there is damage to this enamel or cementum this leaves the dentin exposed to the oral environment.
When there is contact of this stimuli-hot/cold foods/beverages -it tends to cause a sharp, painful sensation for a short period of time but can be quite uncomfortable.
What can cause my teeth to become sensitive?
A range of factors lead to sensitivity-as mentioned before the loss of enamel or cementum can exposed dentin and lead to sensitivity.
- Abrasion– brushing too hard/excessively can cause damage/wear away the enamel.
- Erosion- acidic foods from diet or self vomiting tend to erode the enamel.
- Gum disease- buildup of plaque/tartar can cause gum to recede(pill away from gums) and expose root surfaces
- Grinding– occurs naturally and is more common than you think-wear away the enamel of your biting surfaces
- Cavity/cracked tooth- bacteria or trauma can cause damage to your tooth and lead to exposure of dentin
- Smoking– encourages build up or plaque and leads to gum receding
What can I do to fix this?
As there are many different causes of sensitivity ,your treatment can vary therefore my number one suggestion would be to visit a dental professional before starting any treatment.
Sensitivity toothpastes are extremely helpful in reducing sensitivity but are also costly therefore make sure you’re using it on advice from your dental professional-as if there are other causes it may not be as effective as required.
What to expect at the dentist?
Your dental professional will usually take some x rays and carry out a dental examination before diagnosing you. They might make use of cold air,water or heat in order to figure out what starts your sensitivity.
Different treatment options to expect
- Cavity/abrasion/erosion/grinding- depending on the severity and pain response -these can usually be treated by a filling-resin like material which replaces missing parts of your tooth. They cover dentin and thereby reducing sensitivity
- Gum disease- is usually an irreversible process but through gum treatment-which is a procedure by which your gums are numbed and deep cleaned can help to reduce symptoms.
How can I treat sensitivity at home?
- Sensitivity relief toothpaste- eg are Sensodyne and Elmex-all do a very good job at controlling and reducing sensitivity.
- Flossing – will help to clean out in between your gums and keep them helping and preventing gum disease.
- Brushing and type of toothbrush- i know a lot of people are taught from a young age to brush harder to keep teeth clean-however this can often lead to damaged enamel and sensitivity. Try using a softer brush and brush towards your gums.
When should I visit my dentist?
It is advisable to visit your dental professional every 6 months for a dental check up and cleaning.if not possible when you start experiencing sharp pain with more consistency or if it starts to interfere with your daily life-should be good enough reason to pay them a visit.
When should I be worried about my sensitive teeth?
When it starts to become more frequent/severe and interferes with your daily life. Examples are avoiding eating /drinking certain types of foods/drinks because you’re afraid you may have pain.
Can I strengthen my enamel?
Yes !!!! with the use of FLUORIDE -you can strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities. FLUORIDE is present in most toothpaste and is the most important ingredient.
Will it hurt when I go to the dentist?
It will depend on the severity of your sensitivity but most dental procedures are done with local anesthetic which numbs the area and makes it much more comfortable for you.
Word of advice
If you’re reading this there’s a chance you probably are experiencing sensitivity and may be a bit scared as to how bad your teeth may be. Sensitivity toothpaste can provide you with some temporary relief but try to get to a dental professional as soon as you can.
They may seem quite scary but their only intention is to help you and most of the time your treatment isn’t anything too scary. You’ll be more relieved and more comfortable after a consult with them. Remember to always be kind to yourself as teeth are pretty complicated and this is much more common than you may believe.
Treat People With Kindness
Khilona
Links
- Clinical textbook of dental hygiene and therapy- Robert Irland
- Sensitive Teeth: Causes and Treatments- Sensodyne
- Sensitive teeth- Oral Health Foundation
- Davari A, Ataei E, Assarzadeh H. Dentin hypersensitivity: etiology, diagnosis and treatment; a literature review. J Dent (Shiraz). 2013 Sep;14(3):136-45. PMID: 24724135; PMCID: PMC3927677.