What is teeth sensitivity?

Teeth sensitivity occurs when the outermost layer of the tooth enamel wears and the dentin becomes exposed. The dentin has tiny dental tubules (channels) that allow stimuli to travel to the dental pulp- the innermost layer of the tooth. The dental pulp consists of nerves, blood vessels, specialized cells, and connective tissue. Teeth sensitivity also occurs when there is tooth erosion and even gum recession.

Causes

Many contributing factors can lead to teeth sensitivity including:

Teeth Grinding: Clenching and grinding can cause wear and tear of the enamel in severe cases the underlying dentin becomes exposed

Gum recession: Gum recession is when the gums pull away from the tooth and expose the root. Some people may be genetically more at risk for thin gum tissue. Gum recession is the result gum disease in the early or later stages.

Brushing aggressively: Hard toothbrush bristles can also cause wear to the enamel over time and expose the dentin.

Whitening products: You may experience teeth sensitivity after using a teeth whitening product because it may contain an abrasive and have an acid formula of the whitening product increasing the risk of teeth sensitivity.

Acidic foods: Consuming large amounts of acidic foods may cause teeth sensitivity citrus fruit, tomatoes, lemons, orange juice, etc.

Dental procedures: Fillings and sometimes dental cleanings may temporarily cause teeth sensitivity. Usually only lasts a few weeks.

Treatment

Teeth sensitivity can vary on the cause it can slowly go away or linger for a while. You can manage the teeth sensitivity and here is how:

Use soft bristle toothbrush: less enamel wear, and gum recession

Good oral hygiene routine: reduce the amount of plaque and calculus build-up overall

Reduce clenching and grinding: be mindful when you notice you are doing these habits and wear night guard during night time to help reduce any enamel wear.

Avoid and limit acidic or sugary foods: Be careful with what you eat. Rinse with water for 15-20 seconds after eating to reduce the amount of acid and sugar in the mouth.

Use desensitizing toothpaste: There are several desensitizing toothpastes the active ingredient that helps reduce sensitivity is potassium nitrate. Make sure to brush and not rinse after to help occlude the dental tubules.

Fluoride/ hydroxyapatite products: You may use OTC toothpaste with active ingredients containing fluoride and/or hydroxyapatite to help remineralize weakened tooth structure.

Ask your dentist if fluoride varnish is available and if dental bonding is appropriate for your case on teeth sensitivity.

I recommend Sensydone toothpaste and BOKA toothpaste. I have generalized teeth sensitivity and have learned to manage teeth sensitivity with these products.

Sensodyne

BOKA

If you have sensitivity that progressively gets worse call and schedule an appointment with your dentist.