What is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity (Dentine Sensitivity) is a painful condition that occurs when the dentin layer of the teeth is exposed to external influences. Dentin is the organic and living tissue in the middle of the tooth that is sensitive to heat and touch, covered with enamel at the crown and cementum at the root. When the enamel is worn or decayed, the exposed dentin becomes sensitive to external influences and causes sudden pain. At the same time, tooth roots that are exposed due to gingival recession may also become sensitive and cause pain.

The outermost layer of the tooth contains enamel, and the outermost layer of the root of the tooth under the gingiva is cementum. Under the enamel and cementum, there is the dentin layer, which contains canals extending to the nerve centers of the teeth containing fluid. When stimuli such as hot, cold, chemical etc. come into contact with these canals, they will cause fluid movement and pain will develop in the tooth with the stimulation of the nerve.

Although tooth sensitivity is characterized by a short-term and temporary pain, if the main causes of sensitivity are not treated, oral health problems can become worse and their treatment can be difficult.

What Are the Main Causes of Tooth Sensitivity?

• Enamel abrasion and gingival recession and exposure of the dentin surface as a result of pressing with a hard toothbrush and/or a rough toothpaste.

• Gum diseases such as gingivitis (gingivitis), peridodontitis, which causes the tooth roots to be exposed.

• As a result of frequent consumption of acidic foods and beverages (orange, lemon, cola, etc.), tooth enamel is melted over time and the dentin layer is exposed.

• Habits such as nail biting, teeth clenching-grinding, chewing hard objects, which usually result from stress, eroding the teeth and causing the dentin to be exposed.

How can I prevent sensitivity in teeth?

The best way to prevent the dentin layer from being exposed is to keep the gums healthy with regular oral care. Isolation/fluoride varnish to be applied between the teeth and gums and the underlying bone structure provides protection by covering extremely sensitive roots.

Correct daily brushing and use of interface cleaners (floss, interface brush) are the basis of hygienic oral care.

Avoid frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks, and you can rinse your mouth with water after consumption, but do not brush your teeth for half an hour.

Consult your dentist to treat the main factor that causes you to feel tooth sensitivity.