The term dentin hypersensitivity is not very commonly used, but the condition is actually common. The dentin is part of the tooth that is placed beneath the enamel. It becomes exposed when its protective surface, the enamel, suffers from erosion or the gum line recedes. When this happens, expect your teeth to introduce a yellow colour which coats over your white shade.
What Is The Dentin?
The dentin is a hard, yellow tissue made of dentinal tubules that are connected to the nerves. This lies underneath the enamel, and a covering of the root which is the cementum. This is usually protected by the enamel, but when the enamel erodes, the protection of the dentin is weakened, causing the yellow shade to appear on your teeth. The exposure of the dentin then introduces hot and cold sensitivity inside the mouth, known as dentin hypersensitivity.
How Dentin Becomes Exposed
Eating your favourite foods are likely to be a significant culprit to enable erosion and exposure of dentin hypersensitivity. Alongside this, here are some reasons why the dentin becomes exposed:
Overzealous Brushing
Brushing your teeth is always important, however, how you brush your teeth is equally as important. It is always recommended that you brush your teeth gently with a soft bristle brush in a circular motion. Brushing with excessive force can cause your teeth to become damaged. This can also become worse if you do this with abrasive toothpaste. The enamel may be the hardest substance in the body, but it is also very thin, and excessive brushing will cause its erosion. You can read more about it here.
Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding is a condition that occurs during your sleep. It is caused by a misaligned bite and stress. When you wake up every morning, you’re likely to see your tooth surfaces becoming damaged. This wears out the enamel and exposes the dentin.
Bad Habits
Your teeth become damaged if they’re used for habits such as opening packaging or biting down on hard surfaces. Your enamel will eventually begin to break down to cause dentin exposure.
Treatment for Dentin Hypersensitivity
To reduce experiencing dentin hypersensitivity inside the mouth, there are ways to manage the pain. Dentists will recommend the following ways to treat it:
- Brush your teeth gently with a soft-bristle brush in a circular motion
- Reduce consumption of sugar to avoid bacteria and sugar combining together to produce acid that attacks your enamel
- Brush teeth with a sensitive-pro toothpaste. The general dentist can recommend the best toothpaste for your teeth
- Avoid using your teeth to bite down on hard surfaces
- Consider in-office treatments such as desensitizing agents
Are you experiencing dentin hypersensitivity and are worried by the throbbing pain? Our experienced dentists at Lotus Dental are ready to do all we can to relieve you of your pain. Contact us now for a consultation or book a check-up appointment here.