Are Your Teeth Sensitive?

Is a taste of ice cream or a sip of hot coffee sometimes a painful experience for you? Does brushing or flossing make you wince occasionally? If so, you may have a common problem called "sensitive teeth."

Cavities and fractured teeth can cause sensitive teeth. But if your dentist has ruled these problems out, then worn tooth enamel or filling, a cracked tooth or an exposed tooth root that may be a result of excessive brushing, gum recession or periodontal disease may be the cause.

A layer of enamel, the strongest substance in the body, protects the crowns of healthy teeth. A layer called cementum protects the tooth root under the gum line. Underneath the enamel and the cementum is dentin, a part of the tooth that is less dense than enamel or cementum.

The dentin contains microscopic tubules (small hollow tubes or canals). When the dentin loses its protective covering, the tubules allow heat and cold or acidic or sticky foods to stimulate the nerves and cells inside the tooth. This causes hypersensitivity and occasional discomfort when you chew, drink cold or hot liquids or when you breathe through your mouth.

Proper Oral hygiene is an important step in preventing tooth decay, periodontal disease and pain from sensitive teeth.  If you brush your teeth incorrectly or even over-brush you may injure your gums and expose tooth roots

Treating Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive teeth can be treated. Your dentist may suggest that you try desensitizing toothpaste, which contains compounds that help block transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve. Desensitizing toothpaste usually requires several applications before the sensitivity is reduced. When choosing toothpaste or any other dental care products, look for those that display the American Dental Association's Seal of Acceptance.

If the desensitizing toothpaste does not ease your discomfort, your dentist may suggest in-office techniques. A fluoride gel or a desensitizing agent may be applied to the sensitive areas on the affected teeth.  When these measures do not correct the problem, your dentist may suggest other treatments, such as a filling, a crown, an inlay, or bonding to correct the flaw or decay.  The type of sensitivity will determine the type of treatment.

In cases where hypersensitivity is severe and persistent and cannot be treated by other means, your dentist may recommend endodontic (root canal) treatment to eliminate the problem.  If your teeth are sensitive call  284 494 2004 for your appointment.  We can help!

Article sourced from the Journal of American Dental Association Vol 134.