Tooth Sensitivity - What, Causes, and Treatment

Tooth sensitivity is a common problem that affects millions of people. Basically, tooth sensitivity means experiencing pain or discomfort to your teeth from sweets, cold air, hot drinks, cold drinks or ice cream. Some people with sensitive teeth even experience discomfort from brushing and flossing. The good news is that sensitive teeth can be treated.

What is it?

Tooth sensitivity is something that affects a number of people. It is often caused by eating or drinking something hot, cold, sweet or acidic. Under normal conditions, the underlying dentin of the tooth (the layer that immediately surrounds the nerve) is covered by the enamel in the tooth crown, and the gums that surround the tooth. Over time, the enamel covering can get thinner, thus providing less protection. The gums can also recede over time, exposing the underlying root surface dentin.

The dentin contains a large numbers of pores or tubes that run from the outside of the tooth to the nerve in the center. When the dentin is exposed, these tubes can be stimulated by changes in temperature or certain foods.

Causes for Tooth Sensitivity:

There are many causes of these tubules being open including prepping a tooth and cutting away the enamel layer. In this case we strive to reseal the tubules by creating a hybrid zone or placing a base or liner under the restoration. Abrasive toothpastes and brushing will keep the tubules on exposed root surfaces chronically open, as will an acidic oral environment which demineralizes the plug and ends of the tubules. Sometimes simple behavioral changes like a less abrasive toothpaste, or dietary changes will dramatically improve a patient’s sensitivity.

There are multiple solutions to this type of sensitivity, one is to numb the pulpal response, and this is the way potassium nitrate in toothpaste and relief gel works. Another approach is to seal the dentinal tubules which prevents the fluid movement. HEMA, a common ingredient in many desenstizers coagulates in the tubules sealing them up. Other topical treatments are designed to seal the tubules through remineralization, or physically as you burnish it against the tooth.

Ways to Relieve Sensitivity

Once sensitivity occurs, it is important to have a dental exam to determine the cause. For cavities and cracks, dental restorations such as fillings and crowns can be used to fill in the enamel so that the dentin will no longer be exposed. For most instances of sensitivity, a fluoride coating can help to cover the dentin while also strengthening the teeth to prevent further damage. Finally, a person should continue to practice good oral hygiene practices that will keep their teeth in top condition so that they remain free of sensitivity.

Can I Prevent Tooth Sensitivity?

You can reduce your chances of getting tooth sensitivity by keeping your mouth as healthy as possible with good oral hygiene to help prevent receding gums and periodontal disease.

Brushing and flossing properly as recommended by your dentist or hygienist and using a low abrasion toothpaste can help reduce the chance that you will have tooth sensitivity.

A diet that is not acidic also helps prevent tooth sensitivity. Ignoring your sensitive teeth can lead to other oral health problems, especially if the pain causes you to brush poorly making you vulnerable to tooth decay and gum disease.

What Can I Do if I Have Sensitive Teeth?

To treat tooth sensitivity use a low abrasion toothpaste specially made for sensitive teeth — a desensitizing toothpaste. These toothpastes make the teeth less sensitive if you brush with them twice a day and also contain fluoride to help protect your teeth against decay. Alternatively, a high fluoride level toothpaste that is specially formulated to make your teeth less sensitive and provides extra protection against decay. These treatments happen at home when you are brushing your teeth and are inexpensive. Other treatments for sensitive teeth that your dentist or hygienist can provide in the dental office are also available. There are many more treatments that a dentist can provide for sensitive teeth, these include treatments that are painted onto the teeth — such as fluoride varnishes and plastic resins, fillings if a lot of tooth area has been lost, and lasers.

Tooth sensitivity is very common and it has been estimated that approximately half the population experiences tooth sensitivity. Taking care and following a healthy oral care regime can help you fight sensitivity. Also, you should ask your dentist or hygienist about the best way to treat your sensitivity.