Many people often complain about sensitive teeth. The simplest stimulus is enough to trigger a pain flash. These symptoms are often associated with great discomfort and cause significant distress for the affected individuals. Today, we will discuss the causes and solutions for sensitive teeth.
Causes of sensitive teeth
Pain-sensitive teeth are also referred to as dentin hypersensitivity in the dental field and are not uncommon. Contrary to widespread assumptions, a dental disease is rarely the cause; rather, it is often an external stimulus. Generally speaking, many chemical or mechanical stimuli can affect the teeth. More specifically, these stimuli have the potential to trigger pain-sensitive teeth:
- Hot or Cold (e.g. ice or a hot soup)
- Sweet or Sour (e.g. candies or a lemon)
- acidic beverages (e.g. acidic fruit juices)
- rarely also cold drafts
- rarely also salty foods (for example, pretzel sticks)
Teeth are primarily made up of dentin, the most important building material. Dentin extends from the root tip to the crown and provides structure, color, and stability. Inside the tooth body is a space known as the pulp. Within this space are tiny nerves and vessels that supply the tooth with essential nutrients. To ensure that these nutrients also reach the outer layers of dentin, the tooth is permeated with small channels called dentinal tubules.
The gums now recede, exposing the tooth neck. The tooth neck is the transition area between the tooth crown and the tooth root. This area is particularly low in protective tooth enamel. This, in turn, means that the small canals are exposed and can thus make direct contact with the outside world. The tooth then responds to the above stimuli with pain.
Possible diseases caused by sensitive teeth
A gum recession is therefore the central cause of sensitive teeth. But what actually causes gum recession?
Among other things, the following gum diseases can cause a recession:
- Periodontitis – an inflammation of the periodontal tissue caused by bacteria and poor oral hygiene. The gums are often red and swollen.
- periodontal recession – describes a non-inflammatory gum recession. Causes are usually found in natural aging processes up to incorrect brushing techniques.
- wrong tooth brushing technique – close coordination with the dentist is necessary here. However, it usually applies to brush "from red to white" and to use soft toothbrushes.
These gum diseases do not develop overnight. They usually form over time. Therefore, it can be difficult to recognize the symptoms. You should urgently visit the dentist if your gums are bleeding more frequently, receding significantly over time, or if your teeth are starting to loosen.
We at OnlySmile advise against bleaching for sensitive teeth.
Photo: © Onlysmile, Dean Drobot - shutterstock.com
Author: Johann (blogguru.de)