TOOTH SENSITIVITY
Tooth sensitivity is a common name for Dentin Hypersensitivity or Root Sensitivity. If hot, cold, sweet or very acidic foods and drinks, or breathing in cold air, makes your teeth or a tooth sensitive or painful then you have sensitive teeth and this occurs as a result of the thinning of the enamel as well as gum recession.
CAUSES
- Worn tooth enamel from using a hard toothbrush and brushing aggressively.
- Tooth erosion due to highly acidic foods and beverages
- Tooth sensitivity can also occur as a result of tooth decay, worn leaky fillings and broken teeth that expose the dentin of your tooth.
- Gum recession that leaves your root surface exposed.
- Grinding your teeth can also be a major cause.
- Post dental treatment sensitivity such as crowns, fillings and tooth bleaching.
PREVENTION
- Keep a good oral hygiene so as to prevent receding gums.
- Avoid consuming excess acidic diets.
- Brush and floss regularly and properly as directed by your dentist.
- Ensure you use soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Avoid grinding your teeth. Use a mouth guard if possible.
TREATMENT
- Firstly, visit your dentist or hygienist.
- Use desensitizing toothpastes
- The application of fluoride varnish or gel to the sensitive teeth in your mouth can also help reduce some of the pain and discomfort by strengthening your enamel and dentin.
- Bonding agents can also be a very good solution.This is achieved by sealant to cover the area that is being affected (i.e. the tooth root that has become exposed), thereby sealing the surfaces as well as blocking exposure to the causes of sensitive teeth.
- If all else fails and it is thought that your sensitive teeth are seriously undermining your quality of life, your dentist may decide that you are a suitable candidate for root canal treatment. This procedure can effectively compensate for sensitive teeth by removing the soft pulp inside the tooth.
References;
Livescience https://www.livescience.com/44377-sensitive-teeth.html
123Dentist https://www.123dentist.com/4-treatments-sensitive-teeth/