7/27/2023
Dentin hypersensitivity, also known as sensitive teeth, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by the exposure of the dentin, the layer of tissue beneath the enamel, to stimuli such as hot or cold foods and drinks, air, or brushing.
The dentin contains tiny tubules that are filled with fluid. When the dentin is exposed, these tubules can transmit pain signals to the nerves in the tooth. This is why sensitive teeth can be painful when exposed to certain stimuli.
There are a number of things that can cause dentin hypersensitivity, including:
- Gum recession: When the gums recede, the dentin is exposed.
- Tooth brushing: Brushing too hard or with a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away the enamel and expose the dentin.
- Tooth whitening: Tooth whitening can also cause dentin hypersensitivity.
- Erosion: Erosion is the loss of tooth enamel due to acids from food, drinks, or stomach acid. This can expose the dentin.
- Trauma: A blow to the tooth can cause dentin hypersensitivity.
There are a number of things you can do to treat dentin hypersensitivity, including:
- Using desensitizing toothpaste: Desensitizing toothpaste contains ingredients that help to block the pain signals from the dentin to the nerves.
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush: Using a soft-bristled toothbrush will help to prevent further damage to the enamel.
- Avoiding certain foods and drinks: Some foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, carbonated drinks, and ice cream, can trigger dentin hypersensitivity. Avoiding these foods and drinks can help to reduce pain.
- Flossing regularly: Flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth, which can help to prevent further damage to the enamel.
- Seeing a dentist: If you have severe dentin hypersensitivity, your dentist may recommend other treatments, such as dental bonding or a crown.
With proper care, most cases of dentin hypersensitivity can be managed. However, it is important to see a dentist if you are experiencing pain from sensitive teeth. The dentist can diagnose the cause of your sensitivity and recommend the best treatment.
Here are some additional information about dentin hypersensitivity:
- Symptoms: The symptoms of dentin hypersensitivity can vary from person to person, but they typically include:
- Sharp, shooting pain when exposed to hot or cold foods and drinks
- Pain when brushing the teeth
- Pain when exposed to air
- Pain when eating acidic foods or drinks
Diagnosis: The diagnosis of dentin hypersensitivity is usually made by a dentist during a routine checkup. The dentist will ask about your symptoms and examine your teeth. They may also use a special instrument to test the sensitivity of your teeth.
Treatment: There are a number of treatments available for dentin hypersensitivity. The most common treatment is to use desensitizing toothpaste. Desensitizing toothpaste contains ingredients that help to block the pain signals from the dentin to the nerves. Other treatments include:
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Avoiding certain foods and drinks
- Flossing regularly
- Seeing a dentist for other treatments, such as dental bonding or a crown
By following the tips above, you can help to manage your dentin hypersensitivity and prevent further damage to your teeth.
At Prodent Advanced Dental Care, we provide all the dental services with extreme care and personal interest. We maintain consistency of doctors, which helps our patients to have a comfortable and friendly atmosphere while undergoing required treatment and it will help the patient to follow-up the treatment in future years comfortably.
