The Nation's Health

Health Tips: Sensitive Teeth

sensitive teeth

Sensitive teeth is usually caused by exposed dentin, the layer next to the enamel. A lot of things can cause dentin to be exposed. One most common is improper toothbrushing method.

Too much pressure applied during toothbrushing using a hard bristled toothbrush causes abrasion on the enamel layer, exposing the dentin layer beneath it.

Most common example of this is cervical abrasions, found in the "neck" portion of the tooth crown.

The tooth can also be bruised or abraded from dntal instrumentations, especially after a restorative procedure. Accidental biting on hard substances can also bruised the tooth. Another cause of tooth sensitivity is exposure of the root portion of the tooth due to gingival recession.

Pain from sensitive teeth is not always constant. It can come and go. Constant pain could be a sign of a more serious problem. It is important to discuss your symptoms with your dentist to determine the cause and proper treatment.

Depending on the diagnosis, your dentist may recommend one or more of the following treatments to relieve the symptoms of sensitive teeth:

A soft-bristle toothbrush.A special sensitive teeth toothpaste which can either block access to the nerve or make the nerve itself less sensitive.

A fluoride rinse or sensitive teeth gel, recommended by your dentist.

A sensitivity protection toothpaste usually takes several weeks to ease pain. Follow the instructions of your dental professional on the regular use of sensitivity protection toothpaste to keep pain from returning

Some sensitive teeth toothpaste or sensitive teeth gel can be used on your regular tooth brushing schedules

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