Tooth Sensitivity (Dentin Hypersensitivity) - The Facts
Tooth sensitivity is the most common complaint dentists hear, apparantly one in five adults in the USA suffer from tooth sensitivity.
Tooth sensitivity is a short sharp pain felt when the tooth is exposed to hot/cold and sweet/sour food or drink. In extreme cases just exposure to cold air can cause pain for people with sensitive teeth. The sensitivity occurs because the enamel of the tooth has been worn down and the dentin is left exposed.
There are many causes of tooth sensitivity, the most common are
- Bruxism - teeth grinding
- Loose or missing fillings/crowns
- Cracked Tooth
- Gum Disease/gingivitis
- Gum Recession
- Plaque
- Vigorous abrasive brushing
- Teeth Whitening
- Acidic Foods
Preventing and treating tooth sensitivity is easy with the many products available
- Use a desensitizing toothpaste such as Sensodyne
- Use a flouride mouthwash
- Our remineralising gel will rehydrate your teeth, specifically densigned for sensitivity caused by
bleaching your teeth. - Avoid frequent intakes of acidic foods.
- Wear a nightguard if your sensitvity is caused by grinding your teeth.
- Use a toothbrush with soft bristles.
- Brush your teeth gently, an electric toothbrush will help, particularly one with a pressure sensor such as the Braun Oral-B Professional Care 8500 Delux
You should visit your dentist if you experience tooth sensitivity so that they can recommend the best treatment whether over the counter or surgical. If none of the above methods relieve your tooth sensitivity then it is likely the dentist will carry out a procedure called iontophoresis whereby the sensitivity is treated with a positive electric current while flouride is applied.
Copyright 2005 by Chloe Deverille for Whiter Than White Teeth Whitening Services