Teeth Sensitivity
Do you feel a sharp sensation in your teeth when consuming something sweet, cold, or hot? This condition is known as tooth sensitivity.
Common causes of sensitive teeth include:
Enamel erosion: The protective outer layer of the tooth (enamel) can wear down due to aggressive brushing, frequent vomiting, excessive consumption of acidic drinks like soda, poor dietary habits, or natural wear (attrition). When enamel wears away, it exposes the underlying layers, leading to sensitivity.
Tooth decay: Cavities can expose the inner layers of the tooth, causing increased sensitivity.
Gum recession: When gums recede due to gum disease, the root of the tooth becomes exposed. Since the root surface lacks protective enamel, this can lead to heightened sensitivity.
What should you do?
Consult your dentist to determine the exact cause of your tooth sensitivity. Based on their evaluation, one or more of the following treatment options may be recommended:
Use of desensitizing toothpaste or cream
Application of a desensitizing agent on the affected teeth
Application of dental varnish to protect exposed areas
Restoration of worn or decayed tooth surfaces
Root canal treatment, if the sensitivity is due to severe damage
Treatment for gum recession to cover exposed tooth roots.
Caution:
Never just start using a desensitising toothpaste before getting the cause of the sensitivity determined. The desensitising toothpaste will mask your symptoms but the underlying problem will not be solved. Delaying treatment will cause bigger problems in future causing more loss of time, money and health.