Sensitive Teeth

​Sensitive teeth is one of the most common dental condition. Sensitive teeth can mean anything from getting a mild twinge to having severe discomfort that can continue for several hours. It can also be an early warning sign of more serious dental problems.
There are several causes which can result in sensitive teeth- 

• Dental Erosion: Hypersensitivity due to dental erosion is the most common cause of sensitive Teeth. This is loss of tooth enamel caused by attacks of acid from acidic food and drinks. If enamel is worn away, the dentine underneath is exposed which may lead to sensitivity. Gums may naturally recede (shrink back), and the roots of the teeth will become exposed and can be more sensitive. Root surfaces do not have an enamel layer to protect them. 
• Toothbrush Abrasion: Brushing too hard and brushing from side to side, can cause enamel to be worn away - particularly where the teeth meet the gums. The freshly exposed dentine may then become sensitive.
• Gum Recession: Gums may naturally recede (shrink back), and the roots of the teeth will become exposed and can be more sensitive. Root surfaces do not have an enamel layer to protect them.
• Tooth grinding: This is a habit which involves clenching and grinding the teeth together. This can cause the enamel of the teeth to be worn away, making the teeth sensitive.
• A Cracked Tooth or filling: A cracked tooth or broken filling can cause sharp sensitivity due to stimulus of underlying dentin or nerve.  

The treatment of sensitive teeth mainly aims to sealing the exposed underlying dentin which can be performed at the dental clinic in the form of adhesive restorations (fillings/bondings) and application of desensitizing gels, fluoride toothpastes, rinses etc.  as an ongoing care & maintenance at home. 
During an examination our experienced dentist  will talk to you about your symptoms to find out what is causing the sensitivity and advise you on the best way of treating it. 

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