Have you ever experienced a staggering sharp shooting pain while savouring hot, cold or acidic foods ?? I am sure many of you must have. These are classic symptoms of teeth sensitivity and you are actually experiencing teeth sensitivity .
What causes teeth sensitivity ???
To understand teeth sensitivity , we'll have to know the anatomy of teeth in brief . Teeth is composed of three layers. The first one is enamel , second layer is dentin and third or innermost layer is pulp. When teeth gets eroded to such an extent that dentin or second layer gets exposed , teeth sensitivity can be experienced. Dentin has microtubules which transmits hot, cold or acidic substances to nerve. Receding gums can also cause teeth sensitivity because enamel is not present in the roots and dentin is covered by cementum. When this cementum is worn out or gumline has receded, again teeth sensitivity can be experienced. The susceptibility of teeth sensitivity varies from person to person depending upon the thickness of enamel.
Reasons of Teeth Sensitivity
Brushing too hard or using hard bristled toothbrush.
Eating acidic foods or high sugar content diet.
Teeth Grinding out of stress or during sleep.
Gum diseases which causes gum inflammation leading to gum recession and exposed root surfaces.
Frequent usage of teeth whitening toothpastes which contain coarse abrasive particles as compared to conventional or regular toothpastes.
Cracked teeth .
Worn out teeth fillings
Treatment Options
Desensitizing toothpastes which contain potassium nitrate, novamin etc. to block sensitivity.
Fluoride application which conceals the exposed dentin and strengthens the enamel to reduce hypersensitivity.
Bonding resin which is applied professionally by dentist on sensitive exposed root surfaces reduces hypersensitivity.
Root Canal Treatment followed by crown is the last resort when none of these treatment options work out and the sensitivity is persistent and severe.
Surgical gum grafts in which exposed root surfaces can be covered through grafting or flap surgeries.
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