Tooth Sensitivity – Overview
Tooth sensitivity is due to the exposure of dentin, the part of the tooth which covers the nerve, either through loss of the enamel layer or recession of the gums. Temperature changes and certain foods (acidic or sweet) can cause the tooth or teeth to be painful. The pain usually subsides after a short period of time.
The dentin contains many pores or tubes that run from the outside of the tooth to the nerve in the centre. When the dentin is exposed, these tubes can be stimulated by changes in temperature or certain foods.
The best way to find out why a tooth is sensitive is to have dental professional examine you. They can look for the signs of dentin exposure and run tests to determine what the true cause of the sensitivity is. Sometimes, the sensitivity is due to a cavity or gum disease – these can be treated to address the sensitivity. Other times, the cause of the sensitivity is because the enamel has been lost through abrasion or erosion, or the gums have receded, causing the roots to be exposed.
What Can Be Done About Sensitive Teeth?
If the sensitivity is due to a cavity, a restoration can be placed. If gum disease is the cause, the dental professional can perform a thorough cleaning of the area.
However, if the cause is from dentin being exposed, then there are many professional and at home treatments that can be used to reduce the sensitivity.
Dental Office Procedures:
Fluoride varnish can be applied to exposed areas, strengthening the enamel and dentin
Fluoride foam or gel can be placed into a mouth tray; you then sit with this in your mouth for 3-5 minutes, providing the teeth with a high concentration of fluoride to strengthen the areas
Bonding agent, the material used to stick tooth coloured restorations to teeth, can be used to seal the dentin surface and provide a barrier to the stimuli that cause sensitivity
Use a very soft bristle toothbrush, with low abrasive toothpaste
Brush correctly and do not over brush
Use a toothpaste specially formulated to soothe the nerve endings in the tooth
Use a high concentration fluoride toothpaste (given to you by the dental professional) to strengthen the tooth surface
There are many treatments available, and your dental professional can help you find those that will work best, depending on your situation. Always seek a dental professional's help – do not try to diagnose this problem yourself. It may be the sign of something more serious, and only a dental professional can tell you what it really is.