Tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem that affects people worldwide. This condition causes sharp, sudden pains when exposed to hot, cold, sweet foods and drinks or pressure on your teeth. Read below to learn more about the symptoms, causes, and prevention methods for sensitive teeth.
What is Tooth Sensitivity?
Dentin hypersensitivity, better known as tooth sensitivity, occurs when the dentin layer under the protective tooth enamel gets exposed. Dentin contains thousands of tiny fluid-filled tubes leading directly to the nerves of your teeth. When these tubes get exposed, external hot, cold, or acidic stimuli easily reach the nerve endings, causing a short, sharp pain.
What are the Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity?
One of the most common symptoms of tooth sensitivity is a sharp pain or tingling sensation whenever your affected tooth contacts an external trigger. Common causes when you feel:
- Hot or cold foods and liquids.
- Sweet and acidic foods.
- Extreme air pressure.
- Even brushing too hard.
The pain only lasts as long as the stimulus is applied and goes away afterward.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity develops due to the loss of protective coverings on the crown area of teeth:
- Cavities
When a cavity breaks through the enamel and reaches the dentin, we will feel great sensitivity to cold, hot, or acidic foods. In this case, the solution would be to perform a dental filling as soon as we notice the decay.
- Broken or chipped teeth
As in the case of cavities, when a tooth breaks and the fracture reaches the dentin, tooth sensitivity will appear. The ideal would be to treat this problem by placing a crown or dental cap.
- Worn fillings
When a tooth that has had cavities is filled, it can happen that, over time, the filling looks worn. This happens due to aggressive brushing or erosion caused by particularly acidic products. In these cases, the dentin is exposed again, causing the sensation of sensitive teeth. Therefore, it is advisable to have a dentist review the old filling so that it can be performed again. Connect with Versailles Dental Clinic in Dubai to learn more about how we can help you treat tooth sensitivity with our professional and tailored solutions.
- Receding gums
Receding gums can be caused by aggressive brushing or periodontal disease (periodontitis). In any of the cases, retraction leaves the root of the tooth exposed, which is very sensitive and is usually protected by the gum. However, the solution to tooth sensitivity caused by receding gums will depend on each case.
If it is due to aggressive brushing, a gum graft can be performed. However, if the cause is periodontitis, the first thing to do is put yourself in the hands of a periodontist to prescribe periodontal treatment to stop the disease.
- Worn tooth enamel
- Tooth enamel can wear away due to several factors:
- The use of a very abrasive paste combined with very aggressive brushing
- The habit of grinding and clenching of your teeth (bruxism)
- The habit of exerting too much force while chewing
Since tooth enamel does not regenerate, a simple composite restoration will be necessary. Subsequently, a porcelain or composite dental veneer or a crown is placed (if the wear is very aggressive). In the case of bruxists, it will also be essential to manufacture a discharge splint – Michigan type – for the patient to use at night.
- Tooth erosion due to acids
The habitual consumption of very acidic foods and drinks (citrus juices, soft drinks.) can cause tooth erosion or decalcification, leaving the dentinal tubules free. It will be very useful to restrict the consumption of acidic foods to prevent tooth sensitivity from increasing. The dentist must assess the degree of erosion to determine if any type of restoration must be carried out.
How to Prevent Sensitivity in Teeth
You can take proactive steps to minimize sensitivity issues:
How do you remove sensitivity in teeth?
Although we have just explained what we can do if we have tooth sensitivity, below we are going to give you some recommendations to prevent it and prevent it from appearing. These “remedies” involve both putting yourself in the hands of a dentist and following healthy and hygienic routines.
- Establish good eating habits
Avoid consuming acidic foods and drinks that can wear down the enamel of your teeth: citrus juices, wine, dressings with vinegar, soft drinks…
- Correct your bad habits
Avoid using wooden chopsticks, using your teeth as if they were tools (biting or tearing a container to open it), smoking, drinking excessively, chewing with excessive force during meals, etc.
- Follow a thorough hygiene routine
In addition to regular brushing, use dental floss, as it will help you prevent gum problems and prevent their retraction.
- Use toothpaste and rinse specifically for sensitive teeth
- Don’t brush aggressively
- Use a toothbrush with soft bristles, especially for tooth sensitivity
- Go to your dentist
It is very likely that you will only be able to determine the cause of tooth sensitivity and find its solution by going to him. Therefore, unless you are very clear that the origin of the discomfort is completely temporary – because you have just put on braces, for example – it is best to visit your dental clinic. If you suffer from tooth sensitivity for any of the reasons mentioned above, you will be able to calm it and avoid that unpleasant yet familiar pain that we have all experienced at some point.
- Desensitizing pastes
The use of desensitizing gels or pastes works very well in reducing dental hypersensitivity, and their use is widespread. There are different brands available in any pharmacy or supermarket, and to use it, you just have to apply a little of the paste on sensitive teeth.
Conclusion:
The sooner you address sensitivity triggers, the lower your risks of major tooth damage or severe discomfort from hot, cold, and touch over time. If over-the-counter remedies don’t provide lasting relief, consult your dentist about prescription-strength toothpaste, sealants, bonding, fillings, or grafting procedures to cover exposed areas on affected teeth.
