Sensitive Teeth

Teeth that are sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, sour even to brushing and flossing may have a condition refereed to as Dentin Hypersensitivity. Dentin is a layer of tooth structure under the hard enamel surface. Dentin has nerve endings that can be responsive to temperature, acidic foods, touch and more.

The pain associated with sensitive teeth is often described as a sharp pain in a tooth or several teeth that often leaves as quickly as it came. Yet the experience is disturbing enough that it may cause you rethink food and drink selection or even how you brush your teeth. Although some dietary changes are not always a bad idea, changing your brushing habits (if they are currently correct) can lead to other problems.

Dentin hypersensitivity or sensitive teeth are extremely common and for the most part treatable. There are several reasons why the dentin may be exposed to or react to these stimuli. They include brushing too hard, especially on the sides and near the gums, gums that have receded below the natural gum line exposing the dentin, bruxism or tooth grinding and other causes of wear on the enamel, acidic foods that temporarily soften enamel, stomach acid (from illnesses and especially eating disorders) and certain dental procedures (especially teeth whitening) can create temporary dentin hypersensitivity.

Tooth sensitivity can be reduced by having any underlying dental problems treated and the use of specialized toothpastes and treatments. Maintain a regular oral hygiene regimen, use a soft bristle brush and brush at a 45 degree angle in a circular motion (not back and forth), after eating food that softens enamel wait a while before brushing your teeth, reduce your intake of highly acidic foods and rinse with water after eating them.