Many patients may have tooth sensitivity, especially in the presence of hot or cold foods and beverages, and the treatment of dentine hypersensitivity has remained a mystery to the community.
Have you ever experienced pain or discomfort following a taste of ice cream or a scoop of hot soup? If so, you are not alone. Even though tooth sensitivity can make eating hot or cold foods uncomfortable, it is also common among people with sensitive teeth.
Teeth that hurt or feel uncomfortable in response to certain stimuli, such as hot or cold temperatures, are said to have dentin hypersensitivity, also known as tooth sensitivity. It could be a short-term or persistent issue, and it could impact one tooth, a few teeth, or all of the teeth in one person. Although there are several potential causes, most sensitive tooth situations can be effectively managed by altering your oral hygiene routine.
Dentin Hypersensitivity: What is it?
One of the most common dental problems is dentin hypersensitivity. The main cause of this disease, which results in severe sensitivity and discomfort, is dentin exposure to heat, chemical, or osmotic stimuli. The area of the tooth structure immediately below the enamel is called the dentin.
The terms "dentin sensitivity" and "dentin hypersensitivity" are interchangeable. Due to the pain, which can hit while performing a simple task like eating something cold or hot, and the unattractive appearance, this can significantly worsen the quality of life of the affected person.
What conditions could result in dentin hypersensitivity?
An individual may be predisposed to dentin hypersensitivity for a number of reasons, including:
· Brushing too vigorously can damage the tooth's enamel, which serves as a protective layer. Dentin hypersensitivity results from the dentin being exposed due to enamel damage.
· Periodontal (gum) diseases are one of the major causes of gum recession. Gum disease can make the gums pull away from the gum line, exposing the dentin beneath and making it more sensitive.
· Teeth that have been broken or fractured may have allowed bacteria to enter the tooth pulp, causing pain and sensitivity.
· Too much usage of abrasive teeth-whitening products, such as hydrogen peroxide or baking soda, can harm tooth enamel and expose the deeper tooth layers, making teeth more sensitive.
· Plaque build-up on the tooth's surface could potentially be a factor in tooth sensitivity.
· The likelihood of dental sensitivity may also rise with excessive mouthwash usage, particularly if the dentin is exposed. The mouthwash's acids could make your teeth even more sensitive.
· Teeth grinding regularly, such as with bruxism, can also weaken the protecting enamel and increase the sensitivity of the dentin.
· Dentin sensitivity may develop from enamel erosion, particularly that brought on by ingestion of very acidic foods, such as pickles, tomatoes, and tea.
· Dentin sensitivity may result from some dental operations such as scaling, crowning, and fillings. However, the sensitivity brought on by these operations typically returns 4 to 6 weeks after the procedure.
How can sensitive teeth be identified?
Make an appointment with your dentist if this is the first time you've noticed tooth sensitivity. They can examine the condition of your teeth and search for any issues that might be causing the discomfort, such as cavities, loose fillings, or receded gums.
This can be accomplished by your dentist while performing your regular dental cleaning. They'll perform a visual inspection and clean your teeth. They might use dental tools to gently touch your teeth to check for sensitivity, and they might also request an X-ray to rule out other possibilities like cavities.
Treatment options for dentin hypersensitivity
Before beginning any treatment, dentin hypersensitivity must be accurately diagnosed. The medical history will make it easier to determine the pain's intensity, stability, and causes or effects. To determine whether a tooth is questionable, various diagnostic techniques, including an air jet, a water spray, or a probe, may be used.
Following diagnosis, the numerous procedures listed below are used to treat dentin hypersensitivity, including:
· Elimination of the causes of dentin hypersensitivity
Dentinal hypersensitivity can be treated by improving etiological variables such as improper tooth cleaning techniques, addressing dentition issues like premature occlusal contacts, and limiting the consumption of extremely acidic foods.
· Using desensitizing chemicals to treat dentin hypersensitivity
To reduce sensitivity, a variety of desensitizing drugs are available. In general, these can be divided into two categories according to the way they are applied:
Application at home: This procedure, which allows the patient to self-apply the desensitizing chemical, is simple and logical. Some of the at-home desensitizing products come in the shape of toothpaste, tooth powder, chewing gum, and mouthwash.
Application at dental offices: This procedure is more expensive and covers fewer teeth than methods used at home. Potassium nitrate, 2% sodium fluoride, oxalates, varnishes, composites, and bioglass are a few of the often-used desensitizing substances. These substances either seal the dentinal tubules or stop the transmission of pain-causing nerve impulses to produce their effects.
Conclusion
Using a desensitizing toothpaste is a simple and safe treatment option for patients with dentin hypersensitivity. Encourage patients to use a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoid sensitivity-causing foods and activities, and keep up with scheduled check-ups. Checking the patient's brushing technique is also required because overly vigorous scrubbing of the teeth and gums can sometimes result in dentin hypersensitivity.
Many patients are unaware that dentin hypersensitivity is a treatable illness that impacts their ability to enjoy daily life and activities. By setting the standard for patient education and care of dentin hypersensitivity, dental professionals have a unique opportunity to enhance the lives of their patients. Dentin hypersensitivity can be resolved, which may seem like a simple step, but it is a satisfying accomplishment for dentists, staff, and patients alike.