Sensitivity can be caused by a number of different situations, such as eating ice cream, drinking hot coffee or brushing your teeth. It may also mean that you have hypersensitive (excessively sensitive) teeth. We can help determine the cause and rule out any underlying dental problems such as a cavity, tooth grinding, a degenerating nerve, a fractured tooth or toothbrush abrasion.

Hypersensitivity is common and usually results when the dentin, the tooth layer under enamel, is exposed. Microscopic tubules found in dentin are then open to such irritations as heat, cold or acidic foods. Overzealous brushing or constant tooth grinding thins the enamel and may be responsible for the excess sensitivity.

Hypersensitivity usually decreases or disappears later in life as the tubules narrow. Desensitizing toothpastes contain compounds such as strontium chloride which seals the dentin tubules or potassium chloride, which appears to block the transmission of pain through the nerves. These toothpastes are usually used for a limited time and generally require a number of applications before they are effective. Ask our office about their use.

The dentin tubules can also be covered by sealants (plastic materials that are painted onto the tooth surface) and resins (tooth-colored restorative materials). Flouride treatments can also reduce or eliminate sensitivity.