Tooth Sensitivity
When you drink something hot or cold, or eat something sweet or sour, or simply touch your teeth with a fork or toothbrush-do you ever feel a sudden painful sensation? It’s not a constant pain; it comes and goes. It may be due to sensitive teeth.
You are not alone. Many people suffer from sensitive teeth. Unfortunately, many people don’t bring this matter to attention of their dentists.
If you suspect you have sensitive teeth, let us know.
The most common theory about tooth sensitivity and what causes is related to the dentin in your teeth. Dentin is the porous part of your tooth, underneath and below the protective enamel covering. Underlying dentin can be exposed in a number of ways, including:
- Recession of the gums
- Gum disease (and/or gingivitis)
- Periodontal treatment
- Fractured or chipped teeth
- Tooth wear at the gum line (called abrasion or abfractions)
- Teeth clenching or grinding
- Enamel Erosion/Acid Wear (due to acidic foods, or conditions like bulimia, acid reflux)
Once the dentin is exposed, so are tiny fluid filled tubes (tubules) that make the dentin porous. These tubules connect to the center of the tooth where the nerve is located. Any stimulus can trigger fluid movement and excite the nerve, resulting in a sensation that can be a mild as a tingling feeling or as intense as a sharp pain.
Your dentist or hygienist will discuss a number of factors that may be lending themselves to sensitivity. They can help you avoid or correct some of the most common causes of sensitivity.
The sensitivity toothpastes work by blocking the tubules to reduce fluid movement and therefore nerve excitation. The protection builds over time; it may take 2-3 weeks before noticing any results. The effect can increase up to 3 months. If discontinued, the sensitivity can return.