SENSITIVE TEETH

SENSITIVE TEETH

Many of us say we have "sensitive teeth." We usually mean that we feel twinges of pain or discomfort in our teeth in certain situations, including:

• Drinking or eating cold things.
• Drinking or eating hot things.
• Eating sweets.
• Touching the teeth with other teeth or the tongue.

Symptoms

Both dentinal and pulpal sensitivity usually involve reactions to temperature or pressure. Sensitivity to cold drinks or foods is the most common symptom. Less often, the teeth are sensitive to hot temperatures. If a single tooth changes from cold sensitivity to hot sensitivity, the tooth's nerve may be dying. In this case, root canal treatment is necessary.

Diagnosis

Your dentist will look at your dental history and will examine your mouth. He or she will ask about your oral habits. Grinding or clenching your teeth can contribute to sensitivity. Your dentist also will look for decay, deep metal fillings and exposed root surfaces. He or she may use an explorer—a metal instrument with a sharp point—to test teeth for sensitivity.
A tooth may be sensitive to cold for several weeks after a filling is placed. The metals in amalgam (silver) conduct the cold very well, transmitting it to the pulp. Bonded (tooth-colored) fillings require etching the tooth with acid before the filling is placed. In some cases, this etching removes enough enamel to make the tooth sensitive. However, advances in bonding now make it less likely to cause tooth sensitivity.
Your dentist or endodontist can conduct tests to see if you need root canal treatment.

Prevention

Dentinal sensitivity — You might be able to reduce your chances of dentinal sensitivity by:

• Brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
• Using a soft or ultrasoft toothbrush and brushing gently up and down, rather than side to side.
• Using a fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse.
• Using a toothpaste that has the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Approval and provides protection against sensitivity.
• Getting treatment for grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism).

Pulpal sensitivity — If a tooth needs root canal treatment, there is no good way to prevent pulpal sensitivity other than to get the needed treatment. Delaying root canal treatment may result in further problems and is not recommended.

By Dr. Ana Oviedo, Mexico Dentist