Dentin hypersensitivity
Dentin hypersensitivity remains one of the most frequently-caused dental problems. It occurs because of the exposure of dentin to chemical, thermal, or osmotic conditions, thus leading to extreme sensitivity. Dentin hypersensitivity may also cause pain in your teeth, which is why it is essential to address the problem.
What Triggers Dentin Hypersensitivity?
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Brushing your teeth too harshly wears off the protective enamel, thus exposing your teeth to sensitivity.
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Dentin hypersensitivity is also caused because of receding gums.
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Broken or fractured teeth allow the bacteria to find their way into your teeth' pulp, leading to inflammation and sensitivity.
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Regular grinding and clenching of teeth are other factors that deteriorate the protective enamel and result in tooth sensitivity.
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Overexposure of the teeth to abrasive agents like baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and others also trigger this condition.
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Dentin hypersensitivity is caused because of accumulation of plaque and tartar on the surface of your teeth.
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The consumption of several highly acidic food items such as tomatoes, pickles, tea, and so on is another cause of this dental problem.
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Various dental procedures like tooth crowning, scaling, and fillings may lead to sensitivity to your teeth. However, your teeth recover within a few weeks of such treatments.
How to Treat Dentin Hypersensitivity?
When you visit our clinic to treat this condition, we will examine your dental health. We will also take a detailed history of your condition and identify the predisposing factors. After learning your case history, we may choose options among in-office procedure, at-home desensitizing, or any other treatment.
At-Home Desensitizing Treatment will be advised to use a toothbrush comprising soft bristles and dental-grade toothpaste to combat sensitivity. We may also prescribe a mouthwash, chewing gums, and other medications containing desensitizing elements like potassium chloride, potassium nitrate, potassium citrate, and others. When you treat your hypersensitivity at home, it is also essential to keep a check on your diet. Do not consume food or drinks that are acidic.
In-Office Desensitizing Treatment we use materials such as glass ionomer cement or composite and apply them on the surface of your teeth to control sensitivity. We may treat your condition with oxalates and varnishes. The application of varnishes reduces tooth sensitivity and pain.
Endodontic Therapy (Root Canal) If the above-listed treatment options do not work, we will remove the dentin-pulp complex of your affected teeth and fill it up. The procedure is popularly known as root canal treatment.