Sensitive Teeth - Causes and Symptoms

Definition

The expression "sensitive teeth" refers to a sensation of discomfort or pain in one or more teeth. In this case, the pain is acute, pungent, and suddenly occurs, often after having taken foods or liquids rich in sugars, or too cold, too hot or too acidic.

In the presence of healthy teeth, the enamel and the base of the gums cover the underlying dentin. The teeth are especially sensitive at the points where the enamel has thinned, leaving the softer part of the underlying tooth (which is precisely the dentin) exposed, or at the points where the gum has receded, making the layer covering the root vulnerable (cement). The pain, therefore, comes from the exposed areas due to the opening of the dentinal tubules; these are very small and numerous canals that contain nerve endings reactive to physical (hot and cold) and chemical (sweet and acidic) stimuli.

Even too vigorous brushing and the pressure generated by chewing can trigger a feeling of discomfort.

The problem of sensitive teeth, more correctly defined as dentinal hypersensitivity by dentists, can have different pathological and non-pathological causes: caries, inflammation and recession of the gums, traumas and repeated injuries, such as nocturnal grinding. Incorrect oral hygiene (improper use of dental floss or a toothbrush with too hard bristles), some dental therapies (eg scaling) and periodontal surgery can also be responsible for hypersensitivity.

Different therapeutic approaches may be useful to solve the problem. Once the cause is removed, in most cases the symptoms slowly decrease. In addition to outpatient solutions, home treatment is essential for sensitive teeth. In particular, it is necessary not to neglect daily oral hygiene, reduce the intake of osmotically active substances (sugars) and acids, use specific toothpastes and check the formation of plaque with pastes, gels and mouthwashes.