EDU: Coping - Sensitive Teeth

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http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=43132 Sensitive Teeth

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

What Can I Do to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is tooth discomfort in one or more teeth that is triggered by

hot, cold, sweet or sour foods and drinks, or even by breathing cold air. The

pain can be sharp, sudden, and shoot deep into the nerve endings of your teeth.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity occurs when the underlying layer of your teeth - the dentin

- becomes exposed as a result of receding gum tissue (the protective blanket

that covers the tooth roots). The roots, which are not covered by hard enamel,

contain thousands of tiny tubules leading to the tooth's never center (the

pulp). These dentinal tubules (or channels) allow the stimuli - for example, the

hot, cold, or sweet food - to reach the nerve in your tooth, which results in

the pain you feel.

There are many factors that may lead to the development of tooth sensitivity,

including.

Brushing too hard. Over time, brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled

toothbrush can wear down enamel and cause the dentin to be exposed. It can also

cause recession of the gums (the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth).

Recession of the gums. As gums move away from a tooth due to conditions such

as periodontal disease, the root surface becomes exposed.

Gum disease (gingivitis). Inflamed and sore gum tissue may cause sensitivity

due to the loss of supporting ligaments, which exposes the root surface that

leads directly to the nerve of the tooth.

Cracked teeth. Chipped or broken teeth may fill with bacteria from plaque and

enter the pulp causing Inflammation.

Teeth grinding . grinding or clenching your teeth may wear down the enamel

and expose underlying dentin.

Tooth whitening products or toothpaste with baking soda and peroxide. These

products are major contributors to teeth sensitivity.

Your age. Tooth sensitivity is highest between the ages of 25 and 30.

Plaque build-up. The presence of plaque on the root surfaces can cause

sensitivity.

Mouthwash use. Long-term use of some mouthwashes. Some over-the-counter

mouthwashes contain acids that can worsen tooth sensitivity if you have exposed

dentin (the middle layer of the tooth). The acids further damage the dentin

layer of the tooth. If you have dentin sensitivity, ask your dentist about the

use of a neutral fluoride solution.

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.

What Can I Do to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity?

Maintain good oral hygiene. Continue to follow proper brushing and flossing

techniques to thoroughly clean all parts of your teeth and mouth.

Use a soft bristled toothbrush. This will result in less toothbrush abrasion

to the tooth surface and less irritation to your gums. Brush gently and

carefully around the gum line so you do not remove more gum tissue.

Use desensitizing toothpaste. There are several brands of toothpaste

available for sensitive teeth. With regular use you should notice a decrease in

sensitivity. You may need to try several different brands to find the product

that works best for you. Another tip. spread a thin layer of the toothpaste on

the exposed tooth roots with your finger or a Q-tip before you go to bed. Do not

use a tartar control toothpaste; rather, use a fluoridated toothpaste.

Watch what you eat. Frequent consumption of highly acid foods can gradually

dissolve tooth enamel and lead to dentin exposure. They may also aggravate the

sensitivity and start the pain reaction.

Use fluoridated dental products. Daily use of a fluoridated mouth rinse can

decrease sensitivity. Ask your dentist about available products for home use.

Avoid teeth grinding. If you grind or clench your teeth, use a mouth guard at

night.

See your dentist at regular intervals. Get professional tooth cleaning, oral

hygiene instructions, and fluoride treatments every 6 months.

If you still have discomfort, talk to your dentist. There may be some dental

procedures that may help reduce sensitivity, including the use of.

White fillings (bonding) to cover exposed root surfaces

Fluoride varnishes applied to the exposed root surface

Dentin sealers applied to the exposed root surface

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Dentistry.

Edited by Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, February 2003, WebMD.

Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2003

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Last Editorial Review: 1/31/2005 6:19:19 AM

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