This might sound familiar: you’re enjoying an ice cream
sundae, or drinking a cool glass of orange juice, when your tooth is suddenly
hit by a sharp pain. You wonder if you might have a cavity, or if, perhaps, the
filling in your tooth might have come off. While either case is possible, it
may also just be a simple case of tooth sensitivity.
Causes
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the nerves in the tooth are
irritated by the movement of liquids within the tubes of the dentin. Located
beneath the protective enamel coating, the dentin is the layer of tissue that
contains the pulp, the living part of the tooth which contains the nerves and
blood vessels. The irritation usually takes place because either the enamel has
been damaged or the gums have receded, thereby exposing the dentin. When this
happens, the tooth becomes particularly sensitive to heat, cold, acidic
substances (like citrus fruits and juices), and sometimes even touch. This can
consequently create discomfort when eating or drinking.
How to Address the
Problem
One way you can lessen tooth sensitivity is by
maintaining good oral hygiene. Brush and floss your teeth regularly. In
addition, be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush lightly so as to
avoid damaging the enamel and your gums. Using toothpaste for sensitive teeth
will also help alleviate the problem, although it usually takes a minimum of
one month of regular use for it to take full effect. Stay away from
tartar-control toothpaste though, as this can actually increase sensitivity.
Another way to make your teeth less sensitive is by
avoiding substances that aggravate or contribute to the condition, such as soft
drinks and acid-containing foods.
When to See a
Dentist
If your tooth continues to be extremely sensitive after
three or four days, then it would be best to see a dentist so as to get an
accurate diagnosis. This is especially important since some other conditions,
like cavities and abscesses, can also exhibit similar pain symptoms.
Your dentist can manage tooth sensitivity in various
ways. This includes performing treatments at the clinic, such as the application
of sealants, or other desensitizing or filling materials, as well as
prescribing products that you can apply yourself. Talk to your dentist so that
he is aware of your concerns, and ask him to explain the available options.
This way, you can be assured that you will receive the most effective and
suitable treatment available.
