subject: Sensitive Teeth [print this page] If a taste of ice cream or a sip of coffee is sometimes painful or if brushing or flossing
Makes you wince occasionally, you may have a common problem called Sensitive
Teeth Some of the causes include tooth decay, a cracked tooth, worn fillings and tooth roots that are exposed as a result of aggressive tooth brushing, gum recession and periodontal (gum) disease.
Causes of sensitive teeth:
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the bullet proof enamel is lost causing exposure the dentin and the tiny nerve endings. There are several causes that can lead to sensitivity in the teeth:
Vigorous Brushing:
Excessive brushing, brushing too vigorously or with a hard-bristled toothbrush can, over time, wear away the enamel layer of the tooth and expose the dentin. Over-brushing can also cause the gum tissue to recede.
Tooth Decay:
One of the common causes of sensitive teeth in children is tooth decay. When a person has tooth decay which is nearing the pulp, then the person starts complaining of sensitivity. This is mostly felt on intake of hot or cold food, and at times, when the person eats sweets as well.
Gum disease:
Conditions like gingivitis cause the gum tissue to become inflamed and sore. This can also tear away the supporting ligaments, exposing the root surface, and allowing stimuli to reach the nerve of the tooth.
Bruxism:
People who clench or grind their teeth can find their tooth enamel wearing down quickly, exposing the dentin.
Teeth-whitening products:
Products that are used to whiten the teeth have been found to be linked to tooth sensitivity. Sensitivity is very common during both in-surgery teeth-whitening treatments and home teeth whitening. Different people experience this sensitivity to varying extents.
Acidic foods:
Regular consumption of foods with a high acid content, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles and tea, can cause enamel erosion.
Recent routine dental procedures:
Sensitivity can occur following teeth cleaning, root planing, crown placement, and tooth restoration. Sensitivity caused by dental procedures is temporary, usually disappearing in 4 to 6 weeks.
This was all about what causes sensitive teeth and ways to deal with this condition. There are many different kinds of toothpaste for sensitive teeth which can help in preventing the sensation felt on intake of hot or cold food. Persons between the age of 25 and 30 have been found to be the most vulnerable to tooth sensitivity.
Treatment:
Sensitive teeth can be treated. Depending on the cause, your dentist may suggest that you try desensitizing toothpaste, which contains compounds that help block sensation traveling from the tooth surface to the nerve. Desensitizing toothpaste usually requires several applications before the sensitivity is reduced. When choosing toothpaste or any other dental care products, look for those that display the American Dental Associations Seal of Acceptanceyour assurance that products have met ADA criteria for safety and effectiveness.
If the desensitizing toothpaste does not ease your discomfort, your dentist may suggest in-office treatments. A fluoride gel or special desensitizing agents may be applied to the sensitive areas of the affected teeth. When these measures do not correct the problem, your dentist may recommend other treatments, such as a filling, a crown, an inlay or bonding to correct a flaw or decay that results in sensitivity. The type of treatment will depend on what is causing the sensitivity.
If you are diagnosed with dentin hypersensitivity, your dentist may apply a desensitizing agent or a protective coating. You may be prescribed a stannous fluoride gel or over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste containing fluoride and either potassium nitrate or strontium chloride.
by: hawarydds06
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