What is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is a common term used for dentin hypersensitivity or dental sensitivity, which is the internal part of teeth. Dental or tooth sensitivity could also be defined as an acute and transitory pain due to hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods. In case If tooth sensitivity is not properly treated then it could trigger the onset of oral disease including periodontitis, gingivitis, and caries. 

Over years it has been noted that due to an excessive consumption of junk or acidogenic food and beverages, tooth sensitivity becomes common in young people. Approximately 1 out of 7 adults are affected by it.

What causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Dentin - contains thousands of dentinal tubules which connect tooth external part to nerves ending, is protected by tooth enamel. When tooth loses its protection from gum, which leads to pain and sensitivity of tooth. Dental sensitivity could be related to patients daily lifestyle and oral hygiene habits: 

1. Excessive chewing force. 

2. Surgery or periodontal treatment. 

3. Presence of bacteria in mouth. 

4. Stomach disorders or psychological disorders that cause an acidic oral environment. 

5. It could also be caused by an anatomical abnormality in which dentins are exposed. 

6. Dental treatments caused by a gingival recession. 

What is the treatment of Tooth Sensitivity?

Pain from tooth sensitivity due to very hot or very cold, sweet or acidic foods, breathing cold air, brushing etc is easily identifiable. Pain could be intense, short duration and could happen in one or more teeth. When it comes to tooth sensitivity, an adequate treatment is required along with following preventive measures such as : 

1. Avoid acidic food and beverages and follow certain dietary habits. 

2. When it comes to oral hygiene an adequate brushing technique should be followed. 

3. Desensitizing agents could also be used. 

4. Use of non abrasive brush is a must. 

5. When it comes to home treatment of tooth sensitivity. Following measures such as : 

6. Dental products which contains potassium salts could be used for home treatment. 

7. These products heals the pulp through exposed dentinal tubules. 

8. Sometime products containing potassium salt also have fluorides, which can partially block dentinal tubules.

What are the symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity?

Enamel or cementum of the teeth could be damaged by tooth decay, tooth trauma and erosion of tooth. Which cause dentinal tubules exposed and causes discomfort or pain in tooth. Apart from that inflamed or sore gums, development of plaque, tooth whitening products and decay near gum line could be the reason for tooth sensitivity. While common symptoms of tooth sensitivity could be : 

1. Bad breath. 

2. Gums recession. 

3. Discharge of pus from tooth. 

4. Inflammation and swelling of gums. 

5. Alcohol-based mouth rinses. 

6. Brushing or flossing teeth. 

7. Acidic foods or beverages.

Is it possible to reverse Tooth Sensitivity?

Yes, tooth sensitivity can be reversed by regular dental checkups, where the dentist will examine your mouth. Apart from that tooth sensitivity can be healed and reversed naturally by following few simple steps, which are : 

1. Tooth sensitivity could be reversed by developing a new oral care regime such as oil pulling technique. Which is like swishing sesame, sunflower or coconut oil for about 10-20 minutes in the mouth. It helps to reduce plaque buildup. 

2. Many dentists believe that oil pulling has antiseptic and moisturizing capabilities. It also reduces plaque and gingivitis in one months time. 

3. Aware of pH levels in foods and beverages is necessary. Imbalance in pH levels creates an environment for bacteria to thrive. 

4. Consumption of too much coffee creates an imbalance of pH levels. In such cases, you can use green tea as an alternative to sugar-rich coffees. 

5. Supplements and vitamins should be added to the diet of people who are looking to reverse tooth sensitivity. 

6. One should eat foods with natural probiotics and reduce sugar intake in your diet.

What happens if you get Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is a condition in which a person suffers a lot of pain and sensitivity in his/her teeth they try to consume anything hot or cold. The sensitivity can occur in a tooth or several teeth at a time. It is a common dental problem which can be acute or chronic. The pain usually occurs in the roots of the affected teeth. If you feel severe pain in your teeth while eating or drinking something hot or cold, you must see a doctor without any delay. Having a thinner enamel might also be one of the reasons for having sensitive teeth as it is the outermost layer that protects the teeth.

How do you get rid of Tooth Sensitivity?

There are many ways to get rid of teeth sensitivity. If you see a dentist, he/she will tell you many ways to treat it. They may recommend you to use a soft-bristle toothbrush or not to eat acidic food in large amount. To treat teeth sensitivity, one must also try to rinse his/her teeth with salt water as it is an effective antiseptic and can help in reducing pain. Washing your mouth with green tea twice a day also helps in relieving the pain and reducing sensitivity.