What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Dentin Hypersensitivity
• Sensitive Teeth

What is Tooth Sensitivity? (Definition/Background Information)

• A sense of discomfort affecting the teeth on taking hot or cold food items is called Tooth Sensitivity. It is a very common dental condition
• Teeth consist of an inner hard layer called dentin and an outer hard layer called enamel. The innermost part of teeth is soft and is known as pulp that is rich in blood vessels and nerves
• When the enamel wears down, the underlying nerves feel the sensation of hot or cold through microscopic pores. This results in Tooth Sensitivity
• The condition can also be the result of receding gums due to aging, leading to exposure of the sensitive portion of teeth. The symptoms may include sharp pain and discomfort when the tooth/teeth comes into contact with certain hot or cold foods
• The treatment of Tooth Sensitivity involves the use of dentist-prescribed desensitizing toothpaste, treatment of any underlying condition, and avoidance of acidic/hot/cold foods and beverages for a short period of time. With appropriate treatment, the prognosis is generally good

Who gets Tooth Sensitivity? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Any individual of any age may be affected by Tooth Sensitivity. It is a very common condition seen in both children and adults
• Both males and females are affected
• No racial, ethnic, or geographical predominance is observed. Worldwide up to 60% of the individuals may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Tooth Sensitivity? (Predisposing Factors)

There are several risk factors for Tooth Sensitivity and some of these include:

• Crude or rough brushing for too long using hard-bristled tooth brush, causing the Sensitive Tooth layers to wear down
• Consuming foods that are acidic in nature such as citrus fruits or spicy foods (pickle, sauce)
• Aging, which tends to lose the natural shine and brightness of teeth; the enamel is worn out and the dentin is affected
• Grinding of teeth due to a condition called bruxism
• Use of certain toothpastes and mouthwashes containing tooth whiteners or chemicals that may be sensitive to some individuals
• Presence of gum disease
• Bulimia (a type of eating disorder) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) causing erosion of outer teeth surfaces
• Undergoing any dental procedure may lead to temporary Tooth Sensitivity
• Poor dental care leading to excessive buildup of plaque
• Presence of fractured, chipped, or broken tooth
• Trauma or injury to teeth
• Teeth whitening procedures may cause temporary sensitiveness of teeth

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Tooth Sensitivity? (Etiology)

• A tooth consists of two hard layers known as enamel (outer layer) and the sensitive dentin (inner layer). When tooth enamel is eroded, it makes the tooth more susceptible to hot and cold stimulus resulting in a Tooth Sensitivity
• The enamel may wear out and thin or there may be reduced protection offered to teeth by the overlying gums. This exposes the more sensitive dentin or roots to hot, cold, or acidic food and drinks
• In some cases, in elderly adults, the gums recede to expose the more sensitive layers of teeth. Contact of these surfaces with hot beverages, ice cream, or very acidic drinks may lead to a mild/sharp pain and discomfort as a result of Sensitive Teeth

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity?

The signs and symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity can vary from one individual to another. It may include:

• Mild or severe discomfort while taking any hot or cold food items or drinks
• Mild or sharp pain
• Difficulty in brushing one’s teeth
• Symptoms of any underlying dental condition, such as gum disease, may be noted

How is Tooth Sensitivity Diagnosed?

A Tooth Sensitivity is diagnosed using the following methods:

• A complete physical examination of the mouth and teeth
• Assessment of medical history including the presence of any underlying conditions, medicines one is currently taking, food and lifestyle habits, etc.
• Use of special instruments to test teeth for sensitivity issues
• Heat and cold test

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Tooth Sensitivity?

Complications due to Tooth Sensitivity may include:

• Unable to eat or drink properly, especially hot and cold foods, acidic drinks, certain fruit juices
• Severe pain and discomfort, in some cases

How is Tooth Sensitivity Treated?

The condition is treatable, in some mild cases, with food and lifestyle adjustments. However, in case of severe Tooth Sensitivity, visiting a dental professional is necessary. Also, if Tooth Sensitivity is severe or persists for one or more weeks, then consulting a dentist is recommended.

The treatment options for Tooth Sensitivity may include:

• Use of recommended toothpaste or desensitizing paste
• Switching to soft-bristled tooth brushes, if using tooth brush of hard-bristles
• Avoid soda and carbonated drinks, hot coffee, ice and ice creams, hard and sticky sweets (toffees and candies), citrus fruits, tomatoes, etc. for a period of time
• Have fruits and vegetables that are fiber-rich, milk and milk products, black or green tea, etc.
• Undertake treatment for any tooth decay, gum disease, including root canal treatment, if necessary

How can Tooth Sensitivity be Prevented?

The following measures may be considered to prevent Tooth Sensitivity, in some cases:

• Use soft-bristled brushes; avoid brushing hard, instead brush softly
• In case Tooth Sensitivity is very severe, brush using fingers by applying paste directly on teeth
• Use dentist-recommended toothpaste or a desensitizing toothpaste
• Rinse with approved mouthwash containing fluoride
• If eating acidic, cold or hot foods is unavoidable, then brush only after a minimum of 30-60 minutes following eating
• Minimize teeth whitening procedures and avoid home teeth bleaching kits, if you have Tooth Sensitivity
• Use mouth guards in case of bruxism (wear while sleeping too)
• Modify lifestyle to decrease stress

Visit a dental professional regularly to treat or ascertain real cause of Tooth Sensitivity and address other dental health issues.

What is the Prognosis of Tooth Sensitivity? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• With appropriate treatment the prognosis of Tooth Sensitivity is typically good
• However, the prognosis also depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause of Sensitive Teeth

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Tooth Sensitivity:

Please visit our Dental Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/dental-health/