Tooth sensitivity can mean anything from a mild, brief twinge to unbearable discomfort lasting several hours. It can also be an early sign of more serious dental problems.
Many people complain of sensitive teeth. The problem can occur at any age. It is most common in people aged between 20 and 40, although it can also affect young teenagers and adults over 70.
What causes the problem
The visible part of the tooth is covered by a layer of enamel, which protects the softer dentine underneath. If the dentine is left exposed, sensitivity occurs. This most often happens where the enamel meets the gum. There the enamel layer is thinner and can fracture. The most common causes of sensitivity are:
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Brushing too hard (mechanical abrasion), especially with horizontal movements, which wears away the enamel, mostly near the gum. If the abrasion reaches the dentine, it often leads to sensitivity.
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Dental erosion. This is the loss of tooth tissue caused by acidic foods and drinks. The wear is worse when combined with hard brushing.
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Over the years, the gums can recede from the tooth enamel, leaving parts of the tooth root exposed. Roots do not have a protective layer of enamel and can become sensitive.
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Some gum diseases involve a breakdown of the attachment between the gum and the root and the formation of gum pockets. Plaque collects in these pockets and cannot be cleaned out, and as a result the problem gets worse.
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Teeth grinding can be a harmful habit that leads to faster wear of the enamel and exposes the dentine.
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Cracks and faulty fillings. Cracks in the teeth may affect only the enamel, yet chemical and thermal stimuli can reach the dentine through them. Poorly made or chipped fillings leave areas of dentine exposed.
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Teeth whitening can cause temporary sensitivity. Before the procedure, you should discuss these risks with your dentist.
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Emotional states, stress and overstrain can also lead to temporary sensitivity in the teeth.
Sensitivity is triggered by cold foods and drinks, by acidic foods and drinks and citrus fruit, and sometimes by breathing in cold air through the mouth. It shows up as pain – sudden or lasting, recurring at intervals of varying length.
Toothpastes for sensitive teeth are available in shops, promising relief within a few days to four weeks. If you have tried this and it has not helped, you should contact your dentist. At the examination, the dentist will assess what is causing the sensitivity. If there are faulty fillings, they need to be replaced. Exposed dentine surfaces can be treated with a special desensitiser. Fluoride preparations are applied in the form of a gel, solution or varnish. Several applications, a week apart, are needed to achieve a protective effect.
To avoid sensitivity, you should:
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Brush your teeth twice a day – in the morning and in the evening – with a fluoride toothpaste.
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If you clench or grind your teeth, ask your dentist whether you need to wear a splint made for this purpose.
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If you are thinking about teeth whitening, discuss the risk of sensitivity with your dentist.
This article is for information only and does not replace an examination by a dentist.
