Ice cream and cold beverages in summers and a hot cup of tea or coffee in winters are one of the best things to get you euphoric. But, you bite on that tasty slice of ice cream or take a sip of that hot coffee and suddenly your teeth send out a stinging sensation throughout your mouth. That is called tooth sensitivity or Dentin Hypersensitivity. If you are facing this problem then your teeth are highly sensitive. Not only does it happen with hot and cold food stuffs but are very likely to happen when it comes to sweet, sour or acidic foods or drinks.
Why does it happen?
A very common phenomenon is the problem of receded gums and with old age, of about 65-70 years, many people face this. Periodontal disease is another issue which can cause some serious tooth sensitivity. Now, when the gum recedes, the dentine in root areas is exposed. In such a situation, there is no enamel the core function of which is to protect the dentine. So automatically the dentine is left with nothing but a soft covering which is known as Cementum. After the Cementum goes away as well, there is no protection and hence, the tooth sensitivity.
Source: (en.wikipedia.org)
Many people have a bad habit of brushing their teeth very hard which can cause the enamel to slowly wear off and expose the dentine. The usage of harsh toothpastes can cause this as well. Tooth erosion can also take place when a particular person has a lot of pickles which are citric or highly acidic in nature and can cause the tooth surface to get dissolved. If you brush poorly when having pain out of dentin hypersensitivity, it can cause a lot of damage to your teeth and cause them to erode and give way to gum diseases as well. So, it is very important to talk to a dentist if you are having a sensitive tooth or hyper sensitive teeth in all. When after having sweet, sour, cold, hot or acidic foods, if any kind of pain or discomfort is experienced, it can be an immediate sign of tooth decay or cavity, broken tooth or the presence of a hole. There is nothing to worry about though as a dentist can treat it easily with the help of a filling or any other form of treatment.
How common is tooth sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is highly common and apparently almost half the population experiences tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is not a constant phenomenon, which means that it goes and comes back again from time to time.
Can tooth sensitivity be prevented?
The chances of getting it can be reduced by:
- Following brushing and flossing techniques as recommended by the dentist
- Using a toothpaste which is low in abrasion
- Keeping the mouth as healthy as possible
- Not to ignore sensitivity in teeth and immediately consulting a dentist for tooth sensitivity treatment
- Reduce citric or acidic intake
What to do if you have sensitive teeth?
The first and foremost thing to do would definitely be to first check with a dentist or hygienist. The oral check-up that they carry out will be extremely important in determining which treatment will be best suited for the condition. He or she will suggest a desensitizing toothpaste as well. These toothpastes lower the sensitivity levels in your teeth if you brush your teeth using them daily, twice a day. They contain fluoride as well which protects your teeth against tooth decay. The dentist may also suggest fluoride-rich toothpastes and fluoride rinses as per the condition of your teeth. These can be simply done at home and are inexpensive. However, there are various procedures that can be done at a dental clinic as well and these include laser treatments, plastic resins, varnishes with fluoride and fillings in case a lot of tooth area has eroded away.
To top it all
Oral hygiene is very important as your teeth play a primary role in the overall beautification of your face. It is topmost priority to take care of them with all you have got. Brushing twice a day, flossing properly using a good toothpaste are all core elements of leading a good orally hygienic life. Ignorance might be bliss in some cases, but when it comes to oral hygiene, it is wise to consult a doctor as soon as possible.
