Oh don’t be so sensitive!

Do you have sensitive teeth? We at Moles Orthodontics wanted to explain why your teeth can become sensitive, and what you can do about it!

Tooth sensitivity is typically caused because teeth have lost some of their enamel. Beneath the enamel lies a tiny fluid-filled tunnel called dentinal tubules- these tubules lead to the tooth’s inner core, which contains pulp, the tooth’s sensitive nerve. If someone had dental work done recently- the odds are the pulp inside the tooth became slightly inflamed and just needs time to return to normal.

Excessively hard brushing can make your teeth very sensitive, and usually right hander’s will notice the left side of the mouth is always more sensitive, because they start brushing on that side, and that’s when we brush the hardest- by the time they make it to the right side, they usually aren’t brushing as hard. There are many other factors that contribute to sensitivity as well such as: receding gums, acidic foods/beverages, grinding, cracks in teeth, and loose fillings can all erode that protective covering, baring the ends of the tubules, and the pulp itself.

You can reduce tooth sensitivity by following some simple tips: use toothpaste recommended for sensitive teeth ( this toothpaste actually acts a filler, when the enamel wears away in areas- the tubules are exposed, and the toothpaste has a special ingredient that will fill those holes.) Also fluoride rinses, ibuprofen, gentle brushing techniques, avoid acidic foods and beverages. Grinding your teeth can also cause some sensitivity.

You can also manage sensitive teeth to still enjoy hot and cold foods or beverages with your dentists help. There is a procedure called Iontophoresis- in which an electric current is used to apply protective fluoride deep within the tubules. But as always the other ways of reducing your tooth sensitivity are great ways to manage it as well.

--Dr. Moles