Sensitive Teeth: Triggers, Signs, and Solutions
Dentin Hypersensitivity (DH) is a common dental issue that affects many individuals. This condition is characterised by short, sharp, intense bursts of pain and discomfort that originate from the teeth in response to certain stimuli.
Dentin, one of the four dental tissues that help with the structure of teeth and transmit sensations from the teeth, contains tubules made up of nerve fibers. When the dentin is exposed due to various reasons, it can lead to sensitivity.
Potential risk factors for DH include brushing the teeth too hard, consuming acidic foods and drinks, shrinking or receding gums, teeth grinding, and using abrasive oral products such as whitening toothpaste or bleaching products.
Symptoms of DH include sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, pain and sensitivity when touching or applying pressure to the tooth area, discomfort when using certain oral products, sensitivity to acidic or sweet foods and drinks.
A dental professional may conduct a clinical exam to diagnose DH. During the exam, they will identify a site of dentin exposure and perform a stimulation test. Treatment for DH may include using a desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride gel, a crown, filling, or bonding, gum tissue graft, or root canal therapy.
DH can be a long process to treat, as sensitivity can take time to resolve. However, there are several home remedies that can help manage the symptoms. These include using a soft-bristle toothbrush, applying toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth twice daily, avoiding highly acidic, sugary, very hot, or very cold foods and drinks, waiting 30 minutes after eating before brushing your teeth, rinsing the mouth with warm salt water, using fluoride-containing products, wearing a mouthguard at night if you grind your teeth, and maintaining gentle flossing habits.
Over-the-counter gels like Gumex-S, which contain potassium nitrate and sodium monofluorophosphate, can also help reduce sensitivity by calming the nerve and strengthening teeth. These remedies mainly control symptoms; however, if enamel is severely damaged or the cause is gum recession, professional dental treatment may be necessary.
Preventing DH involves maintaining good oral hygiene, using fluoride toothpaste, brushing correctly, not brushing immediately after eating, avoiding abrasive products, avoiding certain foods and drinks, dental appointments, and wearing a mouthguard at night if you grind your teeth.
[1]: Source for home remedies [3]: Source for professional dental treatment [5]: Source for over-the-counter gels
- Incorporating home remedies, such as a soft-bristle toothbrush, desensitizing toothpaste, and salt water rinses, into one's health-and-wellness routine can help manage the symptoms of Dentin Hypersensitivity (DH). [1]
- For individuals suffering from persistent dental pain due to DH, it's crucial to seek science-based professional dental treatment, such as fluoride gel, crowns, or root canal therapy, especially when enamel is severely damaged or the cause is gum recession. [3, 5]
