Tooth Sensitivity

Do you have or do you know someone who has sensitive teeth? If your answer is yes, you will have a true appreciation for the content of this page.

What is tooth sensitivity?

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Causes of exposed root surfaces which may result in dentinal sensitivity:

  • Brushing too hard – Over a period of time, brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush may wear away enamel or cementum and cause the dentin to be exposed.
  • Recession of the gums – Movement of gums away from the tooth due to periodontal disease will expose the root surface.
  • Gum disease – Inflamed and sore gum tissue may also cause sensitivity due to the loss of supporting ligaments which exposes root surface.

Other causes of sensitive teeth:

  • Cracked teeth – Chipped or broken teeth may fill up with bacteria from plaque and enter the pulp causing an inflammatory reaction.
  • Grinding your teeth – Grinding or clenching your teeth may wear down the enamel and expose underlying dentin.
  • Plaque – The presence of plaque on the root surfaces can cause sensitivity.

What to do at home:

  • Senior woman brushing teeth Maintain good oral hygiene – Continue to clean all parts of your teeth and mouth thoroughly.
  • Use a soft bristled toothbrush -This will result in less toothbrush abrasion of the tooth surface.
  • Use desensitizing toothpaste – There are many on the market. With regular use you should feel a decreased sensitivity. Try spreading a thin layer on the exposed roots with your finger or a Q-tip before you go to bed. You’ll need to find the product that works for you, likely through trial and error.
  • Consider what you eat – If you frequently eat foods high in acids, such as citrus fruits (example: sucking on lemons), they can gradually dissolve the enamel over time, leading to dentin exposure. The citric acids may aggravate the hypersensitivity and initiate a painful reaction.
  • Use fluoridated dental products – As an example, with a daily application of a fluoridated mouthrinse, hypersensitivity usually decreases. Ask us about a daily fluoride rinse for your home use.

Professional Care:

Ask us what may be used to help reduce sensitivity. Some of the most common treatments are:

  • White fillings to cover exposed root surfaces
  • Fluoride varnish applied to the exposed root surface
  • Dentin sealer applied to the exposed root surface