Tooth Sensitivity: Causes and Ways to Treat the Oral Discomfort

Posted by Dr. Sunitha Prasad on February 23rd, 2019

Tooth sensitivity is quite a common dental problem that troubles a lot of us. Often while having a sip of coffee or your favorite cold drink, you might have felt sudden pain wrecking sensation. Or even while brushing or flossing, you may be subject to occasional wince. If that is so then, you have a sensitive tooth.

What is tooth sensitivity?

Enamel, the thin but hardest tissue covers the crown of every healthy tooth whereas a layer of cementum shields the tooth root that lays under the gum. Under both the enamel and the cementum lies the dentin that contains microscopic tubules or canals. Now, due to various factors when the dentin loses its protective covering, the hollow tubules lets the heat, cold, sticky foods, or any acidic pass through and stimulates the nerves and cells of the tooth. As a result of which, you may experience discomfort and hypersensitivity. Although the sensation is not permanent, however, it causes pain for an occasional period. So, in short, tooth sensitivity is nothing but the discomfort that your teeth experience in response to certain stimuli.

However, the best way to prevent the occurrence of tooth sensitivity is to protect your enamel. If enamel is worn out, your tooth is likely to become subject to sensitivity.

The moment your tooth sensitivity goes beyond tolerance, you must consult your dentistfor immediate help.

What Causes Teeth Sensitivity?

Cavities and fractured teeth are the common reasons behind the sensitive tooth. However, there can be other crucial factors that damage enamel and dentin leading to hypersensitiveness of your teeth. Let’s have a look:

• Using a hard-bristled toothbrush and brushing hard.
• Receding gums that may happen due to periodontal diseases or growing age.
• Gum inflammation and soreness may expose root, triggering nerve sensations.
• Cracks in teeth invite accumulation of bacteria, causing infection and inflammation.
• Teeth grinding over the years may result in wearing of the enamel.
• Consumption of acidic foods, high-sugar carbs, etc.
• Building up of excessive plaque.
• Use of mouthwash for a long time damages the dentin layer.
• Sometimes, dental procedures like tooth restoration and professional cleaning lead to temporary sensitiveness.
• Replacing teeth or filling the cavity.
• Bleaching and other teeth-whitening treatments may remove enamel, causing tooth sensitivity.

If you suffer from sensitivity and related pain, then it’s high time that you visit your nearest dental clinic to get treatment.

Treatment Plan

Here are the ways you can treat sensitive teeth at home:

• Brush using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Do not consume acidic foods like milk, yogurt, cheese, etc.
• Use fluoridated mouthwash and toothpaste
• Get a mouth guard to combat the effects of teeth grinding.

Dental procedures that your dentist may suggest:

• Root canal, bonding, crowns or inlays
• Periodontal plastic surgery or gum graft.
• Tooth fillings
• Application of sealants
• Fluoride gel or varnish.

Summing Up!

Above all, remember to maintain your daily oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing. However, for booking dentist appointments and to know more about dental health, check out India Dental World website for valuable information.