Sensitive Tooth Pain

Tooth sensitivity is a problem that bothers many Americans; in fact, it affects nearly half of the population at one point or another. Tooth sensitivity generally stems from cavities, cracked teeth, or worn enamel. Sensitivity can set in very strongly, or become more noticeable over time, depending on the cause. Prevention is essential to fight sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity may not be 100% curable, but numerous products and procedures can help relieve the pain.

Symptoms

• The first and biggest symptom of tooth sensitivity is if a particular tooth or teeth react to changes in temperature or pressure. Another symptom is a painful reaction to eating foods that are either hot or cold. If this reaction changes from being cold-sensitive to heat-sensitive over several days, the tooth nerve may be dying, and could potentially need a root canal or other procedure.

Types

• Buzzle.com defines two types of tooth sensitivity. These types include dentinal and pulpal sensitivity. Dentinal sensitivity is when the protective layer over dentin, known as the enamel or centum, is removed from the dentinal. This process results in the tooth being exposed.

  Nerves can then be bothered by hot or cold temperature. This can occur in more than one tooth. Pulpal sensitivity occurs when the pulp--the center of the tooth containing blood vessels and nerves--is uncovered. This type of sensitivity usually only occurs in one tooth at a time.

Causes

• According to the ADA, cavities and fractured teeth are both a cause of teeth sensitivity. Other causes may include worn enamel or an uncovered tooth root. Buzzle.com lists causes for dentinal sensitivity as being poor oral hygiene, improper brushing, periodontal disease, cracked fillings, acidic foods and drinks, teeth whitening, and gum surgery. The causes for pulpal sensitivity according to Buzzle.com are recent fillings, infection, tooth decay, clenching or grinding, or a broken tooth.

Treatment

• The American Dental Association suggests treating sensitive teeth by using a desensitizing toothpaste prescribed by a dentist. Several uses of the toothpaste is required before results are noticed, but the specific number of uses per day or week should be instructed by the dentist. Use products with the American Dental Association's seal of acceptance to ensure the quality of the product. If the toothpaste does not help, one-time in-office procedures such as fluoride gel, sealing the tooth root--and, in severe cases, endodontic treatment--may help.

Prevention

• Preventing tooth sensitivity is as simple as practicing good oral hygiene. Ada.org recommends brushing teeth at least twice a day. Other oral hygiene recommendations include flossing daily, eating a balanced diet, limiting in between meal snacking, monitoring sugar intake, and visiting a dentist on a regular basis.