Sensitive
teeth are mainly caused by exposed dentine. If enamel
has been worn off or damaged, then it will lose its
protective function and the dentine will be exposed.
The dentine has many fine dentinal tubules connecting
to the pulp. When it is stimulated by eating or drinking
hot, cold, sour, or sweet food and beverages, or when
it is contacted by a toothbrush or dental floss, sharp
pain will be felt.
Causes
for exposed dentine
Brushing
with a toothbrush with bristles that are too hard, or
brushing with excessive force can abrade the enamel
of teeth.
Frequently
eat or drink highly acidic food or beverages will lead
to acidic erosion of the enamel.
Suffering from Periodontal Disease which causes gum recession and exposed root surface.
Management
Dentist
will apply topical
fluoride on the tooth surface or perform a filling
according to the condition.
Use a “mouth guard” made by the dentist to avoid further attrition of teeth.
Use
desensitizing toothpaste
to relieve tooth sensitivity. You should consult your
dentist before purchasing or using this type of toothpaste.
Prevention
Use a toothbrush with soft bristles.
Brush
with a gentle force.
Avoid frequent
intake of highly acidic food or beverages such as fruit
juice, sports drink, soft drink, yogurt, red wine, white
wine, etc., to avoid acidic attack.
Avoid biting on hard food such as bone or nut to prevent enamel from fracturing.
Sufficient
sleep and exercise to relieve stress to avoid bruxism
(grinding teeth)
