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Mona, a fourteen-year-old girl, adored ice cream until one day, a sharp pain shot through her teeth after a bite of mint chocolate chip. The cold sensation was unbearable, and she began to avoid her favorite treat. Even sipping cool water and brushing her teeth became painful.
Noticing her distress, Mona's mother took her to the dentist. He diagnosed her with tooth sensitivity and prescribed special toothpaste, along with necessary dental treatment.
Mona was again able to take a bite of her mint chocolate chip cone. To her delight, the pain was gone, replaced by pure joy. Through this experience, Mona and her family understood the importance of approaching the dentist and getting regular dental care.
Why did Mona have tooth sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, can be caused by various factors that expose the dentin, the layer beneath the tooth enamel. According to Dr. Hussam (MDS- Master of Dental Surgery), head doctor AHA dental clinics, some of the common causes for tooth sensitivity include but are not limited to:
1. Enamel Erosion: Acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, soda, and wine, can erode tooth enamel over time, exposing the underlying dentin.
2. Gum Recession: Gum disease or aggressive brushing can cause the gums to recede, exposing the roots of the teeth, which are not protected by enamel and are more sensitive.
3. Tooth Decay: Cavities and tooth decay can break down the enamel and exposing dentin, leading to sensitivity.
4. Cracked or Chipped Teeth: Cracks or chips in the teeth can expose the dentin or even the inner pulp, causing sensitivity to temperature changes or sweet foods.
5. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding or clenching your teeth can wear down the enamel, exposing the dentin and making teeth more sensitive.
6. Dental Procedures: Dental work, such as silver fillings, metal crowns, or teeth whitening, can temporarily increase tooth sensitivity.
Mona's friend got a root canal treatment for sensitivity while Mona was treated with only a filling. Mona asks why Root Canal Treatment was needed for her friend while just a filling was enough for me?
Dr Hussam A. Harb explains that stimulus causing sensitivity and pain is due inflammation of tooth pulp which is called pulpitis. Pulplitis can be at early stage i.e. reversible pulpitis or it can be at advanced stage irreversible pulpitis.
While reversible pulpitis classically has short duration pain to cold food, irreversible pulpitis has classic long duration pain to cold/hot stimulus along with characteristic tooth pain at night. Mona had reversible pulpitis and was treated without root canal treatment but her friend had advanced to stage of irreversible pulpitis where tooth nerve become non vital and needs to be cured by RCT.
How can we care for our teeth to prevent sensitivity?
Dr Aisha Kapur (Director- AHA Dental clinic), recommends dental checkup twice a year for early diagnosis and timely treatment along with following tips
1. Brush Properly:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid wearing down the enamel.
- Brush gently in circular motions to prevent gum recession and enamel erosion.
- Brush twice a day for at least two minutes each time.
2. Use the Right Toothpaste:
- Choose toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth, which can help block pain signals to the nerves.
- Avoid abrasive toothpaste that can wear down enamel.
3. Floss Daily:
- Flossing removes plaque and food particles between teeth and along the gum line, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
4. Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks:
- Reduce the consumption of acidic foods and beverages like citrus fruits, sodas, and wine, which can erode enamel.
- If you do consume them, rinse your mouth with water afterward and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.
5. Stay Hydrated:
- Drink plenty of water to help wash away food particles and acids from your mouth.
- Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production, which helps neutralize acids.
6. Avoid Teeth Grinding:
- If you grind your teeth, consider wearing a mouthguard at night to protect your enamel from wear and tear.
- Stress management techniques can also help reduce teeth grinding.
7. Use Fluoride Products:
- Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and can prevent decay. Use fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinses.
- Ask your dentist about professional fluoride treatments if you have a high risk of decay.
- Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. Early detection of issues can prevent sensitivity.
- Discuss any sensitivity issues with your dentist to get personalized advice and treatment options.
9. Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods:
- Hard foods like ice and sticky candies can damage enamel or dental restorations, leading to sensitivity.
By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can help prevent tooth sensitivity and maintain a healthy, pain-free smile.
Wishing you a happy, healthy and beautiful smile because we believe your smile makes the difference.
DENTO-FACIAL SOULTIONS
Best wishes
Team DFS Clinics
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