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What is dentin sensitivity, how it is developed, and how is it treated.

October 7, 2019

What is dentin sensitivity?

 

What is dentin sensitivity, how it is developed, and how is it treated.Dentine sensitivity is tooth pain caused by irritation of the dentin tissue. To understand what causes dentine sensitivity, let’s take a look at the structure of a tooth. A tooth consists of the outer enamel surface, dentin, cementum, and the pulp tissue. The enamel is the hardest layer of a tooth. Beneath the enamel layer is the dentin layer. The dentin layer is tissue that forms the tooth from the dental crown to the tooth root. The dentin layer is softer than the enamel. Within the dentin layers are tubules that pass through the dentin to help you feel sensation in your teeth. Next is the cementum layer, which connects the alveolar bone with the tooth. Encased in the center of the tooth is the dental pulp. The dental pulp is called the nerves. The pulp is living tissue that is connected by blood vessels that supply nutrients to the dentin. The exposed surface of the tooth that you see is called the crown, and the unexposed portion is collectively called the root.

How does dentine hypersensitivity develop?

Dentin hypersensitivity occurs by the loss of protective covering over the dentin. When the dentin is exposed to the outside environment, this can trigger very sharp pain. Also, when the gum starts to recede, and the roots are exposed, this can also trigger dentin hypersensitivity. Dentine hypersensitivity occurs when the protective layer is removed, leading to exposure and opening of dentinal tubules.

How is dentin hypersensitivity treated?

Over the counter, desensitizing agents can be used to treat dentin hypersensitivity. Dentin hypersensitivity can be managed by using desensitizing toothpaste or mouth wash. These desensitizing agents should not irritate the pulp and is easy to use and apply. With frequent use, the desensitizing agent should relieve tooth sensitivity. The active chemical compound in desensitizing toothpaste or mouthwash is some form of potassium salt. If you look at the back of the active ingredients of your favorite desensitizing toothpaste, the active ingredient could be potassium nitrate or potassium chloride. The potassium acts as a plug inside the dentin tubules. Plugging the dentin tubules helps reduce nerve irritation from the exposed dentin. Likewise, desensitizing mouth wash can be used regularly to achieve the same results as desensitizing toothpaste.

What if desensitizing agents don’t work?

If frequent use of desensitizing toothpaste or mouthwash does not alleviate sensitivity, there could be other problems. For example, a fractured tooth or decayed tooth could be causing the tooth irritation. If this is the case, desensitizing toothpaste will not help. You should consider seeing your dentist immediately to determine the root issue.

Now that you have learned about dentin hypersensitivity, on your next dental visit, you will be more informed. If you are ready to schedule your next dental appointment, make sure to call California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to make your next appointment.

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