About this topic
Healthy teeth are protected by a thin layer of enamel on the outside of the tooth. The root of the tooth is protected by a different layer called cementum. Under the enamel and the cementum is a layer of dentin. The dentin has small canals or tubes in it. There are tiny nerve endings inside of these tubes. ‚
What are the causes?
Tooth sensitivity happens when the protective layer of enamel or cementum is worn away. This leaves the tiny nerve endings in the dentin exposed to the things you eat and drink. Hot and cold as well as acidic or sticky foods can all cause you pain. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
You are more likely to have sensitive teeth if you have: ‚
- Poor oral hygiene. This means you may have plaque and tartar at the gumline.
- Been brushing your teeth too hard. You can wear away the enamel or cause your gums to recede.
- Cavities that have not been treated, or an old filling with a crack in it
- A cracked or broken tooth
- A cavity
- Been using a tooth whitening product
What are the main signs?
You may have pain in your mouth or your teeth may feel sensitive. This is more likely to happen when your teeth come in contact with hot or cold food and drinks. ‚
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your dentist will look at your teeth and mouth. The dentist will check your teeth by gently touching and tapping on the teeth. The dentist may ask about problems with heat, cold, or if the pain has kept you from sleeping. Sometimes, the dentist may do other tests to check your teeth. You may need to have an x-ray of your teeth and mouth. ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Treatment is based on what is causing the problem. No treatment may be needed. Other times your dentist may: ‚
- Suggest you use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth. You may also be told to use a fluoride toothpaste and rinse.
- Make a mouth guard to protect your teeth if they are sensitive from grinding or clenching.
- Flush a sore area with warm water. This will loosen any trapped food pieces.
- Apply a coating of fluoride to the tooth.
- Apply a thin layer of desensitizing agent over the exposed root. This thin coating may need to be reapplied as time goes on.
- Fill a cavity or replace a broken or cracked filling.
- Suggest a gum graft may be needed to cover exposed root surfaces.
- Do a root canal. This is needed when the nerve of the tooth is infected or inflamed.
- Pull a tooth. This is needed when the nerve is infected or inflamed and a root canal is not possible.
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Brush your teeth at least 2 times a day. Use toothpaste with fluoride.
- Use dental floss to clean between your teeth each day.
- Eat a well-balanced diet.
- Try to stay away from foods and drinks that are high in acid, sugar, and starch. These are things like chocolate, sweets, cakes, and fizzy drinks.
- See your dentist for regular cleaning and checkups.
Where can I learn more?
Academy of General Dentistry ‚
http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=S&iid=329&aid=1319 ‚
American Dental Association ‚
http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/s/sensitive-teeth ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚