Tooth sensitivity is caused by the stimulation of cells within tiny tubes located in the dentin (the layer of tissue found beneath the hard enamel that contains the inner pulp). When the hard enamel begins to break down or by receding gums – exposing the tiny tube surfaces – eating or drinking food and beverages that are hot or cold may cause pain; touching your teeth; or exposing them to cold air.
Hot and cold temperature changes cause your teeth to expand and contract. Over time, your teeth can develop microscopic cracks that allow these sensations to seep through to the nerves. Exposed areas of the tooth can cause pain and even affect or change your eating, drinking and breathing habits. Taking a spoonful of ice cream, for example, can be a painful experience for people with sensitive teeth.
Is tooth sensitivity a common condition?
Sensitive teeth is one of the most common complaints among dental patients. At least 45 million adults in the United States and 5 million Canadians, suffer at some time from sensitive teeth.
How can I avoid sensitivity?
Some toothpastes contain abrasive ingredients that may be too harsh for people who have sensitive teeth. Ingredients found in some whitening toothpastes that lighten and/or remove certain stains from enamel, and sodium pyrophosphate, the key ingredient in tartar-control toothpastes may increase tooth sensitivity.
To prevent sensitivity from occurring, use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Avoid using hard bristled toothbrushes and brushing your teeth too hard, which can wear down the tooth’s root surface and expose sensitive spots. The way to find out if you’re brushing your teeth too hard is to take a good look at your toothbrush. for instance, if the bristles are pointing in multiple directions, you’re brushing too hard.
How do I know when it’s time to see a dentist?
Has your tooth been highly sensitive for more than three or four days, and reacts to hot and cold temperatures? It’s best to get a diagnostic evaluation from your dentist to determine the extent of the problem. An accurate diagnosis of tooth sensitivity is essential for effective treatment to eliminate pain. Because pain symptoms can be similar, tooth sensitivity may be the result of a cavity or abscess that’s not visible.
How do I describe my symptoms to my dentist?
Sensitivity may be defined as a short sharp pain, which is usually initiated by hot or cold foods or exposure to cold air. Aching often follows. Because sensitivity may mean different things to a patient and dental professional, be sure to clarify exactly what you feel when you discuss the condition with your dentist. Be sure to explain when the pain started and if there is anything that helps eliminate the pain.
Do some products work to help decrease sensitivity?
Toothpastes for sensitive teeth usually contain a desensitizing agent. As a result, it protects the exposed dentin by blocking the tubes in the teeth that are connected to nerves. In most cases, these products need to be in use on a regular basis for at least a month before any therapeutic benefits are seen.
What can the dentist do for my sensitive teeth?
Dentists have a variety of regimens to manage tooth hypersensitivity, including both in-office treatments and patient-applied products for home use. If you are diagnosed with dentin hypersensitivity, your dentist may apply a desensitizing agent or a protective coating. Additionally, your dentist may prescribe a stannous fluoride gel or an over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste containing fluoride and either potassium nitrate or strontium chloride. These ingredients help block transmission of sensation from the tooth to the nerve. It also might help to massage the special paste onto your gums with your finger after brushing.
What should I do after the dentist has applied a desensitizing agent?
Above all, listen closely to your dentist’s instructions. He or she may advise you not to eat or drink for a short period of time, to eliminate all sources of irritation, such as acidic foods or medication, highly concentrated foods or flavored toothpastes. You may also be instructed to change oral hygiene habits that are likely to cause abrasion or use a daily fluoride application (a rinse or brush-on gel.)
Sources: Dentalnotes, February 1998, January 1996, South African Dental Journal, August 1999, Vol.54 No. 8, Mark Ide; The Dental Advisor: “Dentin Hypersensitivity,” volume 12, number 2, June 1993; General Dentistry: “Hypersensitive dentinal pain attenuation with potassium nitrate,” January/February 1999; The Journal of the American Dental Association: “Assessing the efficacy of three dentrifices in the treatment of Dentinal Hypersensitivity,” Vol. 127, February 1996; George McLaughlin, DMD, Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry
