The Tribune

By Dr Tamika Ferguson

If eating a frozen daiquiri or snow cone makes you say “ouch”, then you may be suffering from tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common complaints among patients. They can no longer enjoy cold or hot beverages without feeling some sort of discomfort.

Enamel is the strongest substance in the body and protects the crown of the tooth while cementum protects the tooth root. Under enamel and cementum is dentin. Dentin contains tiny tubules. Tooth sensitivity is caused when enamel is worn down or your gums have receded, leaving the dentin uncovered. The tiny tubules within the dentin are exposed and pain can be caused by hot or cold beverages/food and exposure to cold air.

Some causes of tooth sensitivity are:

• Brushing

• Teeth grinding

• Periodontal disease

• Acid erosion

Brushing

Many people believe the harder you brush the cleaner your teeth. This is false; by brushing too hard you are causing damage to your teeth. Brushing too aggressively can lead to the removal of tooth structure at the neck of the tooth. If you take a look at your toothbrush and the bristles are in multiple directions then you are brushing too hard. Further, the type of toothbrush you use is also important. It is best to brush with a soft toothbrush instead of one with hard bristles.

Teeth grinding

If you are someone who grinds or clenches their teeth you may be wearing down your enamel and exposing the underlying dentin layer. Some people may be unaware of this habit; if you wake up with headaches and are experiencing tooth sensitivity it’s time to investigate. Ask a mate or whomever you live with if you are grinding your teeth at night.

Periodontal disease

If periodontal disease is left untreated, gum tissues can separate from the tooth resulting in pocket formation. These pockets provide a home for bacteria to fester. Periodontal disease can progress until the bone and other tooth supporting structures are destroyed, leaving the root surfaces exposed causing tooth sensitivity.

Acid erosion

Enamel erosion is a result of the intake of acidic foods and beverages, for example soft drinks, lemonade, etcetera. Whenever you eat or drink anything acidic, the enamel on your teeth becomes softer and loses some of its mineral content. Your saliva acts as a buffer and returns the mouth to its natural balance. However, if exposed to acid frequently, your mouth does not have a chance to recover and overtime enamel will be worn away.

How to treat sensitivity?

Treatment of tooth sensitivity is dependent on the cause. A visit to your dentist is required to determine which treatment option is best for you. One option may be a desensitising toothpaste. Desensitising toothpastes contain compounds which help obstruct sensation travelling from the tooth surface to the nerve. There are also in-office treatments that may help such as fluoride gel and special desensitising agents.

If sensitivity is caused by dietary habits then a change in diet is necessary. If suffering from periodontal disease then a proper periodontal assessment is needed and your dentist will construct a treatment plan specific to your case. For people who grind their teeth then your dentist may suggest a night guard.

While some causes of tooth sensitivity were given not all were discussed. If you are suffering from this condition, having a conversation with your dentist is the first step in finding relief. So don’t be so sensitive!