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Managing sensitive teeth

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Kristin Hays
  • 66th Medical Squadron Dental Flight
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  Dentinal hypersensitivity, or sensitive teeth, is a very common issue for many patients. It can cause great discomfort that may lead to behavioral changes in patients' diets and oral health care regimens.

The following is information provided by the 66th Medical Squadron Dental Flight to help patients learn more about sensitive teeth.

Dentinal hypersensitivity is characterized by short bursts of pain that cannot be attributed to other existing dental defects or pathology. Up to 40 million adults in the United States report symptoms of dentinal hypersensitivity each year.

Dentinal hypersensitivity is caused by the exposure to dentin, either through loss of enamel or by gingival recession, which can occur but is not limited to aggressive tooth brushing, trauma, erosion, gingival breakdown, crown preparation and tongue piercings. Patients with periodontitis are also at higher risk of hypersensitivity.

Many patients will experience tooth sensitivity to cold, hot, air and metal with dentinal hypersensitivity and gingival recession. A tooth's root surface has microscopic fluid filled tubules that run perpendicular to the long access of the tooth. When there is gum recession, these tubules are exposed and with temperature changes, the flow of the fluid in these tubules trigger sensations within the tooth causing immediate pain. This is considered the Hydrodynamic Theory (dentistry).

So what can people do to reduce tooth sensitivity? There are many ways to manage dentinal hypersensitivity and gingival recession. Minimally invasive treatments should always be implemented first.

Plaque and calculus should be removed so inflammation is reduced. Patient education in self-care, including the use of a soft toothbrush and proper tooth brushing technique, should also be provided.

There are products out on the market that are made to help reduce sensitivity. Toothpastes and mouth rinses containing potassium nitrate are specifically targeted to occlude the tubules and reduce tooth sensitivity. These products can be bought over the counter at any supermarket or drugstore. Look at the active ingredient list on the box or bottle to ensure the product contains the desensitizer, potassium nitrate.

It is very important to see a dentist regularly so that a proper assessment, diagnosis and elimination of conditions such as cavities, fractured or chipped enamel is identified and treated.