Have you felt a sudden, sharp pain while brushing, eating, or drinking? If so, you might be familiar with the term’ tooth sensitivity ‘, also known as dentin hypersensitivity.
Typically, these teeth result from worn tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots.
There are several potential culprits behind tooth sensitivity, including cavities, cracked or chipped teeth, worn fillings, and gum disease. These factors can all contribute to the discomfort you may be experiencing.
If you’re experiencing tooth pain due to sensitive teeth, it’s best to consult your family dentist. Their expertise in family dentistry can help identify and rule out any underlying causes.
Read this blog at the end to prevent and treat teeth sensitivity.
What is teeth sensitivity?
Usually, teeth sensitivity arises from exposure to dentin, the underlying layer of teeth. It can occur due to erosion and gum recession, where the gum tissue pulls away from teeth, exposing the roots.
Moreover, Tooth roots, which lack hard enamel, comprise numerous tiny tubules connecting to the tooth’s pulp center. Dentinal tubules are channels that allow stimuli to reach the tooth nerve, causing pain when exposed to hot, cold, or sweet food.
Hence, Dental sensitivity can indicate other issues like cavities, gum disease, or cracked teeth.
Why are my teeth sensitive?
Several possible factors could contribute to sensitive teeth, such as:
Gum recession and gum disease
- Acidic foods
- Age
- Brushing too hard
- Cracked teeth
- Recent dental procedures
- Use of chemicals to whiten or bleach teeth.
- Plaque buildup
- Teeth grinding
How can you Deal with Sensitive Teeth?
Use Soft Toothbrushes
One simple change you can make to alleviate tooth sensitivity is switching to a soft toothbrush. Unlike their harder counterparts, soft bristles are gentle on your teeth and gums, reducing the risk of further irritation.
Similarly, Stiff bristles and abrasive toothpastes wear down enamel. They cause more microscopic holes and, ultimately, more sensitivity. Also, they may worsen gum recession, exposing dentin and irritating nerves.
Finally, use a toothbrush with soft bristles to preserve the integrity of your gums and the surface of your teeth.
Use Good Quality Toothpaste
If you’re dealing with sensitive teeth, using toothpaste specially formulated to treat dental sensitivity can be highly effective. Most toothpastes have a component that temporarily seals microscopic gaps in your dentin and enamel, providing you with the assurance of reduced exposure to nerve sensitivity.
So, this reduces the exposure that the delicate nerves in your teeth will experience.
Use a Mouthguard at Night
If you grind your teeth at night, you may experience sensitive teeth. This is known as bruxism. Therefore, your dentist can create a bespoke mouth guard to wear while you sleep by taking molds of your teeth.
Ultimately, this guard safeguards against pressure and prevents tooth damage resulting from nighttime grinding.
Significantly, the dentist recommends this Mouthguard to children.
Use Dental Varnishes and Coatings
An experienced dentist can apply a variety of varnishes and coatings to soothe sensitive teeth. To lessen tooth sensitivity, use a fluoride varnish. By using fluoride, small gaps in tooth enamel that may allow teeth to become irritated are closed.
However, bonding agents and plastic sealant coatings, often made by a dental lab, can enhance enamel and dentin strength. Dentin, a type of bone tissue, is located beneath the enamel.
Hence, consult your dentist about Dental Varnishes and coating options for reducing sensitivity in teeth.
