What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

08 February 2023

Hypersensitivity of the teeth, also known as increased sensitivity of the teeth, is a very common dental problem in the modern era, and about 40% of adult patients complain about it. Teeth hypersensitivity in patients is caused by the loosening of the enamel (tooth coating) layer. The crown and roots of the tooth contain thousands of tiny tubes (ducts) that connect to the center of the tooth with nerve endings. In such clinical cases, when the nerves of the tooth are no longer protected by the enamel layer, the tooth becomes sensitive to various irritants, be it: cold or hot foods, drinks and foods with a high sugar content. Irritants (food and drink) reach the nerve center of the tooth through the canals and cause pain.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

An increase in tooth sensitivity can be caused by many different circumstances:

• Brushing hard - Improper brushing can wear away tooth enamel over time. Permanently brushing your teeth with a coarse toothbrush wears away the enamel layer and exposes the roots.
• Periodontitis - the majority of periodontal diseases are characterized by gingivitis. Recession of the soft tissues of the mouth also exposes the root, which in direct proportion leads to an increase in sensitivity.
• Cracks on the surface of the tooth - in the case of a cracked and broken tooth, while the integrity of the enamel coating is broken, bacteria can multiply in the crack, which easily enter the canal and reach the nerve center of the tooth.
• Tooth whitening preparations - those toothpastes and wipes that whiten teeth, often contain soda and peroxide. These substances cause tooth sensitivity.
• Age - tooth sensitivity peaks in patients aged 25 to 30 years.
• Plaque - Plaque on the roots of the teeth also damages the enamel and causes sensitivity.
• Mouthwashes Remedies - Constant use of acidic mouthwashes can damage the health of your teeth, thin your enamel and cause hypersensitivity. If you already suffer from increased sensitivity, be sure to consult a dentist who will prescribe an oral hygiene product suitable for your condition.
• Acidic foods - Along with mouthwashes, regular consumption of acidic foods causes the enamel layer to wear away. During high sensitivity, avoid mineral carbonated drinks.
• The rehabilitation period after the dental procedure - after tooth whitening, crown restoration and tooth filling, you may have increased tooth sensitivity, although this is only a temporary phenomenon and usually the patient's complaints disappear in 4-6 weeks.

 How To Treat Tooth Sensitivity?

• Maintain proper oral hygiene - use proper brushing and flossing techniques. Hard-to-reach areas can be cleaned with an irrigator. Thus, you will be able to completely remove bacteria from your teeth and gums and maintain a healthy smile.
• Use a soft toothbrush - a soft toothbrush will not damage the enamel coating, will not damage the gums and will prevent the increase in tooth sensitivity.
• Food - As mentioned, foods with high acidity cause tooth sensitivity, so it is important to have a balanced diet.
•  Visit the dentist regularly - it is necessary to have a professional cleaning of the teeth once every 6 months and use the toothpaste and floss recommended by the dentist. 

"Blits Dental - Kakhaber Kharebava Dental Clinic" is currently the only clinic in Georgia that is a strategic partner of Dentsply Sirona. Dentsply Sirona is one of the most trusted manufacturers of professional dental equipment in the world. Blits Dental - Kakhaber Kharebava dental clinic and laboratory is equipped with equipment and treatment materials produced by Dentsply Sirona, therefore our dental clinic has a technological advantage compared to other alternatives on the market.

In our clinic, you will find a calm, comfortable environment and a team of professionals who will help you solve all problems related to the oral cavity.

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