Ouch! Dentin Hypersensitivity and You

Do you experience  sharp, electric-feeling stabs when you eat or drink something hot? Has a deep breath of cold air ever cause you to wince with pain?  Do  sour or sweet beverages or foods make you yelp?

You probably have dentin hypersensitivity and you are not alone.  One in five people in the United States experience dentin hypersensitivity. More commonly referred to as sensitive teeth,  this hypersensitivity is defined by the Academy of General Dentistry as “short, sharp pains that come from exposed dentin (the layer of tissue found beneath the hard enamel that contains the inner pulp).”

What Causes the Sensitivity?

The dentin of your  teeth contain tiny tubes or pores. Movement of fluid in these tubes, especially when they become exposed by worn enamel or receding gums can result in nerve irritation and pain.

Here are a few common causes of erosion to be aware of:

• Over-consumption of acidic foods.
• Acid reflux or bulimia exposing your teeth to stomach acid.
• Aggressive brushing or use of a toothbrush that is too hard.

How Avoid the Damage and Pain

• Avoid acidic foods and beverages.
• Use a soft bristled toothbrush.
• Brush in a circular motion to reduce abrasion.
• Alleviate pain by using desensitising toothpaste. This toothpaste protects exposed dentin by blocking the tubes connected to nerves.
• Talk to your doctor if you suffer with bulimia.
• Ask Dr. Alex or Sophia Masters about sealants, or fluoride treatments, to reduce sensitivity.

If you do experience pain when you eat drink or even breathe, please call Dr. Alex or Sophia Masters. We offer a variety of solutions at our  Clinton Township dental office to help stop your pain and let you enjoy eating and drinking again.

About The Author

Dr. Sophia Papasifakis Masters

Dr. Sophia Masters boasts 33 years of experience in the field of dentistry. Skilled in different dental procedures, she had advanced training in several prestigious dental institutions such as the Kois Center and The Dawson Center for Advanced Dentistry. She is a professional member of several dental organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. Additionally, she actively volunteers for Donated Dental Services, among others, and was an adjunct clinical faculty at Detroit Mercy Dental and the University of Michigan School of Dentistry.

Read The Full Bio