Sensitive Teeth

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What causes sensitivity?

The sensitive part of a tooth is the dentine and the pulp (nerve) inside the tooth. Enamel has no "feeling". Normally the dentine is covered by the enamel over the crown and by the gum on the root surface above the bone.
Sensitivity occurs if the dentine becomes exposed. This could be due to loss of enamel or recession of the gum. These conditions can arise from decay, gum disease or incorrect brushing where the tooth and gum are worn away. Clenching and grinding can also cause enamel loss at the neck of the tooth.
Treatment of sensitivity revolves around sealing off the multitude of tiny openings on the surface of the dentine. This can be done by the dentist using various varnishes or even placing a filling in more severe cases. In mild cases the use of a desensitizing toothpaste such as Sensodyne^®will create protein and chemical plugs that seal off the dentinal tubules, providing relief from sensitivity.
Plug formation occurs providing that bacterial plaque is removed thoroughly and regularly. This helps prevent gum disease that may lead to gum recession, decay that leads to loss of enamel and most importantly it will prevent plaque acids from dissolving away the newly formed dentinal plugs.
As with all dental disease, PREVENTION is better than cure. Take good care of your mouth.