Have you ever felt pain or discomfort after sipping a cold drink or biting a hot snack? If so, you probably have sensitive teeth, also called dentin hypersensitivity.
Dentin hypersensitivity is the heightened response experienced when you expose teeth to certain external stimuli, such as extreme temperature changes, osmotic, chemical, electrical, and tactile.
The pain and discomfort occur due to exposed dentin and cannot be ascribed to other dental complications.
Causes of Dentin Hypersensitivity
The following are the leading causes of dentin hypersensitivity.
- Aggressive brushing – using too much force or hard-bristled toothbrushes erodes the enamel and exposes the dentin, causing sensitivity.
- Bruxism – teeth grinding wears down the enamel and exposes the dentin.
- Cracked and chipped teeth – a broken enamel is more likely to expose the pulp and nerve endings, resulting in pain and discomfort.
- Gum disease – weakens the gums, exposing the underlying nerves.
- Age – teeth sensitivity peaks between 25 and 30.
- Teeth whitening products – contain abrasives that wear down the enamel and increase the risk of sensitivity.
Sometimes, other health issues might cause tooth sensitivity. For instance, gastroesophageal reflux disease forces stomach acids into the mouth, wearing down the enamel over time. Bulimia and gastroparesis, which cause frequent vomiting, can also increase the risk of dentin hypersensitivity.
Symptoms of Dentin Hypersensitivity
The most common dentin hypersensitivity symptoms are sharp, sudden pain and discomfort in teeth. Cold is the most common trigger, accounting for 75% of all cases. Other triggers include;
- Chemical – acids from food, the stomach, etches during dental appointments.
- Electrical – electric pulp testers.
- Evaporation – air blast from the dental equipment.
- Mechanical-tactile – probing by the dentist, tooth scaling, root planning, and toothbrushing.
- Osmotic – hypertonic solutions.
- Thermal – cold and hot drinks and foods.
Managing Dentin Hypersensitivity
Visit your dentist if you’re experiencing hypersensitivity for the first time. They will examine your teeth and gums for potential causes such as cavities, recessed gums, loose fillings, etc.
During the visit, the dentist will clean your teeth and do a visual assessment. Then, they might probe your teeth using instruments to test for sensitivity. Since hypersensitivity diagnosis involves ruling out other possible causes, they will also order an x-ray examination.
Mild sensitivity is treatable using over-the-counter medication. You’ll also need to purchase toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. These products have desensitising agents that reduce discomfort.
Using soft-bristled brushes and alcohol-free mouthwashes also helps reduce the symptoms of sensitivity. However, it takes time for these remedies to work, usually a week or two.
According to this dentist in Keene, if the dentin is too worn or exposed, surgical treatments may be required. The last resort for exposed dentin is a root canal.
Treating Underlying Causes
If your sensitivity results from underlying causes, you must treat them before they damage your enamel. For example, gastroesophageal reflux disease is treatable using acid inhibitors, while bulimia requires a psychiatrist.
Brushing your teeth gently and observing oral hygiene can treat mild gum recession. For severe cases, the dentist can perform a gum graft.
If you have bruxism, always wear a mouthguard before sleeping.
Wrapping Up
Sensitive teeth are uncomfortable and affect the quality of life by preventing you from enjoying hot or cold drinks and foods. If you experience symptoms, try voiding the potential triggers and visit your dentist.