Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity or dental hypersensitivity is a condition that causes pain in the teeth or molars when exposed to stimuli such as heat, cold, or acidic foods, which are harmless to most people. The most common cause of this hypersensitivity is the exposure of the dentin, the intermediate tissue of the teeth that is usually protected by enamel. This exposure usually occurs due to enamel wear or gum recession.

Although there are some uncertainties about the causes of tooth sensitivity, the most accepted hypothesis is the hydrodynamic theory. This theory states that stimulants alter the fluids inside the teeth, which in turn stimulates the nerve receptors, causing pain.

Symptoms

The main symptom of tooth sensitivity is sharp, localized, and temporary pain when the teeth are exposed to certain stimuli (cold, hot, acidic, or sweet foods, or aggressive brushing).

Causes

As mentioned earlier, an alteration of dental fluids is the main cause of sensitivity in the teeth. These changes can be caused by:

• Poor or inadequate dental hygiene
• Treatments for periodontitis (inflammation of the tissues surrounding the teeth and molars)
• Enamel erosion
• Teeth whitening
• Bruxism (teeth grinding or clenching)
• Untreated cavities
• Infections
• Gum recession

Risk Factors

Tooth sensitivity can affect all kinds of people. Some of the factors that increase the risk of developing it include:

• Age: it is most common between 18 and 40 years old.
• Dental erosion due to:
• Exposure to acids
• Consumption of acidic foods and drinks with a low pH
• Use of certain medications
• Recurrent vomiting
• Regurgitations
• Bruxism or attrition (constant rubbing of the teeth)
• Dental abrasion (wearing down of the enamel) caused by:
• Excessive brushing or using hard-bristled brushes
• Whitening treatments

Complications

If tooth sensitivity is not properly treated, it can lead to gingivitis, periodontitis, or cavities.

Prevention

Some tips to prevent tooth sensitivity include:

• Brush your teeth after each meal with soft-bristled brushes and non-abrasive toothpaste.
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups.
• Avoid very cold or acidic foods.

Which doctor treats tooth sensitivity?

Dentists diagnose and treat dental hypersensitivity.