Teeth sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem affecting millions of people worldwide.

This sensitivity can be noticed on the reaction to either cold or hot substance. It can be discomforting — arises as a result of cracks, cavity or gum diseases.

Table of content

1.0 What are sensitive teeth?

2.0 Who suffers from sensitive teeth?

3.0 What causes sensitive teeth?

3.1 Tooth abrasion

3.2 Dental erosion

3.3 Receding gum

3.4 Tooth bleaching

3.5 Cracked tooth

3.6 Teeth grinding

3.7 Gum disease

4.0 When are teeth more likely to be sensitive?

5.0 Things I should avoid if I have sensitive teeth?

6.0 Do I need to go and see my dentist?

7.0 What treatment can the dentist offer?

8.0 Is there anything I can do to treat the sensitive tooth at home?

9.0 How can I prevent sensitive teeth?

What are sensitive teeth?

When you have a mild twinge to severe discomfort that continues for several hours, it is said to be a sensitivity. This condition can be an early sign of more serious dental problems.

Who suffers from sensitive teeth?

A lot of people suffer from sensitive teeth; it can happen to anyone and at any time. However, it is more common in people aged 20 to 40 years of age, and it can also affect people in their early teens more so those above 70 years of age. Research has shown that women are prone to have sensitive teeth than men.

What causes sensitive teeth?

The visible part of the tooth has a layer called enamel that protects the soft inside, it is the called the dentine, and it is located beneath the tooth.

A tooth can be sensitive if the dentine is exposed, and this usually occurs where the tooth and gum meet because the layer of enamel is thinner at that end.

Some causes of tooth sensitivity are:

• Toothbrush abrasion: Also known as brushing too hard, and brushing from side to side destroy your enamel and wear it out especially at the part where the teeth meet the gums. The dentine which has been newly exposed in this area can become sensitive.
• Dental erosion: This is the loss of the tooth enamel, it is caused by attacks from acidic foods and drinks when taken regularly—the enamel washes away, and the dentin becomes exposed thereby leading to sensitivity.
• Receding gum: The gums also can shrink back (natural recede) and expose the root of the teeth. As a result, the surfaces of the root do not have enamel to protect them, which leads to tooth sensitivity.
• Tooth bleaching: Some people experience teeth sensitivity for a short while after bleaching their teeth, ensure you talk to your dentist about this before commencing this treatment.
• Cracked tooth: A cracked tooth or filling can cause sensitivity because it is already broken, and this exposes the delicate parts of the teeth.
• Teeth grinding: This an unhealthy habit which involves grinding and clenching the teeth together. This can wear the enamel out, thereby making the teeth sensitive.
• Gum disease: Gum disease spread down to the tooth and destroy its structural support when there is tartar or build-up of plaque on the teeth.

Pockets can be created around the tooth in gum disease, this makes the area difficult to clean, and the problem gets worse.

When are teeth more likely to be sensitive?

Teeth are more likely to be sensitive after eating or drinking something cold; it can also occur with hot foods and drinks — it may also occur when cold air touches your teeth.

Some people also experience teeth sensitivity when they take in acidic or sugary foods and drinks. The pain may be irregular at first, but it can become worse at times.

Things I should avoid if I have sensitive teeth?

If you discover that certain cold or hot foods and drinks —acidic or sweet substance, like ice cream cause sensitive teeth, it would be wise of you to avoid them.

On your discovery, of a sensitive tooth, You can also use warm water to brush your teeth instead of cold water from the tap. Also, remember to brush your teeth regularly to avoid, making the tooth sensitivity worse.

Do I need to go and see my dentist?

Yes, you should see a dentist immediately, especially if you have started treating the sensitive teeth at home for at least 3 weeks and without any sign of improvement.

What treatment can the dentist offer?

At a dental examination by Our experienced dentist, the symptoms will be discussed, and a close look will be taken at the tooth to find the actual cause of the sensitivity. We will also look for the best way to treat it effectively.

The affected teeth can be treated using special de-sensitising products; this will help relieve the symptoms of sensitive teeth.

Fluoride gels may also be applied — varnishes or rinses on the teeth. These paintings on the teeth are done every 1 – 2 weeks. Do ensure to meet your regular appointments.

This treatment will help your teeth build-up protection. It may take time, and you might have to attend several appointments. If all these do not help, then we might need to seal or fill around the neck of the tooth where the tooth and gum meet. It will help cover exposed areas, and in severe cases, we may need to fill the root of the tooth.

Is there anything I can do to treat a sensitive tooth at home?

There are many brands of toothpaste in the market that can ease sensitive teeth, also brushing your teeth twice daily —a rub on the sensitive areas using fluoride toothpaste also helps.

This toothpaste can take days to several weeks to function, but this depends on the brand.

Contact us on 020 71834091 or visit us at Harley Street, London. We can help suggest the best products you can choose from the market.

How can I prevent sensitive tooth?

You can prevent sensitive teeth by following some healthy routine dental care such as:

• Brushing your teeth lastly every night before going to bed. Also, brush your teeth at any other time of the day and using fluoride toothpaste of at least 1350ppm of fluoride — you can opt for fluoride for sensitive teeth.

Use a soft-bristled or medium-bristled brush toothbrush to brush your teeth and do it in a gentle circular motion.

• A change of toothbrush every 2 or 3 months or sooner if it becomes bad.
• Do not brush immediately after eating, some foods and drinks can make your enamel soft, you have to wait for at least an hour before brushing.
• Avoid or reduce your regular intake of sugary foods, acidic and fizzy drinks. At best you can have them at mealtime.
• Stop grinding your teeth; you can wear a mouth guard at night to prevent this unhealthy habit.
• If you want to bleach your teeth, first talk to your dentist about it and bring up the issue of sensitivity before beginning the treatment.
• Visit your dentist regularly, as often as he/she recommends and ensure not miss an appointment.