Sensitive Teeth |  Cavity Prevention |  Demineralization |  Healthy Teeth for Life

About Sensitive Teeth

The pain caused by sensitive teeth or dentinal hypersensitivity is a common dental complaint. Tooth sensitivity can sometimes be painful enough that it discourages proper brushing and flossing which can lead to a variety of issues, including:

• Plaque buildup
• Gingivitis
• Periodontal Disease
• Tooth Loss

Dentin is located underneath the enamel or outermost layer of your tooth. Within your dentin are microscopic tubules running from the inside of your tooth to the outside which contain nerve endings and fluid.

Normally, dentin is covered or protected under the enamel of your tooth or beneath gum tissue above your gum line. However, as your gum line recedes due to age or overly aggressive brushing or if enamel is worn away on your tooth due to aggressive brushing or from chips or cracks, dentin can be exposed to various stimuli.

Sensitivity occurs when dentinal tubules are exposed to stimuli such as hot or cold foods (thermal stimuli) or acidic foods (chemical stimuli). These stimuli are transmitted to nerve endings whithin your tooth through the fluid located in the dentinal tubule. This reaction results in a pain response or tooth sensitivity.

Most people do not realize that you do not have to live with the pain or discomfort of tooth sensitivity so they live each day avoiding the stimuli that trigger the pain: hot or cold foods or even brushing and flossing.

However, there is a tratment- Fluoridex. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist if Fluoridex is right for you.

Sensitivity Factors

• Hot or cold foods or beverages
• Sweet or sour (acidic) foods
• Overly aggressive brushing causing tooth abrasion
• Receding gums
• Plaque and bacteria
• Gingivitis and Periodontal disease
• Teeth clenching or grinding
• Dry mouth
• Cracked or chipped teeth

Treating Sensitivity

• Brush your teeth gently using a circular motion. Brushing back and forth forcefully can lead to tooth abrasion
• Avoid tooth abrasion by brushing with a soft-bristle toothbrush
• Floss carefully by moving the floss below the gum line, holding the floss firmly against the tooth and moving the floss in an up-and-down motion
• Moderate your intake of sweet or souc (acidic) foods
• Brush daily with Fluoridex, the first prescription-strength toothpaste specifically formulated for sensitive teeth.
• Have regular dental check-ups to be sure your sensitive teeth haven't become a more serious dental problem.