Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive teeth are defined by sharp pain, tingling or aching caused by temperature changes (cold or heat), sweetness or pressure. The central layer of the tooth is called dentin and in a healthy tooth it is surrounded by enamel, the hard surface layer. However, in some cases the enamel may wear off or get damaged and dentin becomes exposed, along with the nerves it contains. These nerves are the reason why teeth react to the factors such as cold or sweet food.

Specialists suggest that possible causes for sensitive teeth include intense brushing, low standard of dental hygiene, untreated decay, ageing, openings in old fillings, periodontal conditions and acidic foods or drinks.

There is another kind of tooth sensitivity, called pulpal sensitivity. This type of discomfort it caused by the vessels and nerves in the pulp and not the dentin reacting to outside factors. In most cases, sensitivity of the pulp occurs in one single tooth. This condition can be caused by decay, inflammation, incorrect or incomplete application of a filling, grinding of teeth, and damage to the tooth, such as cracking or breaking.

The dentist will begin the treatment by examining the condition of the affected tooth. It is important to make sure if the root canal has not been affected. If it has, the dentist will have to treat the dental root canal.

The symptoms of dental sensitivity can be alleviated by maintaining a good dental routine, including correct brushing (twice a day with a soft toothbrush in a vertical motion) and flossing as well as using toothpaste for sensitive teeth.

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