Sensitive Teeth

Damaged Dentin Causes Indecent Exposure

Your teeth are made up of an incredibly hard, outer 'enamel' layer that allows you to bite and chew, a more porous 'dentin' layer extending from beneath the enamel to below the gumline, and an inner, soft tissue 'pulp' layer containing the tooth's vital nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. Damage such as receding gums or chipped, cracked, worn or broken enamel can allow underlying nerve endings to be exposed to air, hot, cold, and touch… resulting in 'sensitive teeth'. Once dentin is exposed, it's tough to correct the situation. In some cases, laser technology may successfully seal the tiny exposed tubules; in other cases it's necessary to simply treat the symptoms.

First, we may suggest a soft-bristled toothbrush to protect your gums from further irritation and recession; we may also recommend a special toothpaste formulated to block access to the nerve endings or to insulate the nerve itself; and finally, we may prescribe a fluoride rinse or gel. For a few weeks, as you wait for these measures to take effect, you'll need to monitor what you eat and drink-- avoiding very hot or cold foods and beverages, stopping any habitual, conscious grinding or clenching, and brushing very gently with a soft brush.

Bothered by sensitive teeth? Stop soaking them in acid!

Exposed dentin on the root surfaces of teeth and other areas is packed with thousands of tiny pores or tubules which lead directly to the nerve within. Usually, the ends of these tubes are covered with enamel or clogged with calcium and protein material. When these tubes are opened, any irritation like cold water, brushing, or eating can cause pain.
The normal pH or acidity of the human mouth is just slightly less than 7, very similar to plain water. Tooth structure begins to dissolve at a pH of 5.2. Coke and most other soda drinks average a pH of around 3. It is interesting to note that battery acid has a pH of 1. Drinking 3 12oz. colas each day is more than enough to keep your teeth in a constant state of sensitivity. 12 hours soaking in a cup of cola will reduce a human tooth to a rubbery shadow of its former self.
There are many good reasons not to drink colas, but if you suffer from sensitive teeth, you should consider cutting back or eliminating your acid intake.

If careful brushing and desensitizing toothpastes and solutions are not enough, your dentist may attempt to bond a thin layer of resin to your tooth surfaces to block the tubule openings and reduce sensitivity. It is also important to note that tooth sensitivity may also be a sign of nerve irritation from other causes such as decay, tooth trauma, bad bite, recent fillings or dental work, partial tooth fracture, and advancing gum disease. Remember to consult with your dentist if you are cocerned about your sensitivity to rule out more serious causes.