Tooth Sensitivity

Many of our patients at our little practice in Mount Pleasant have sensitive teeth. When they’re sipping the Daily Brew from Tim Hortons or biting into a cone at Doozie’s, the first bite or sip may be handled with care, as it can create discomfort when the hot or cold food or drink comes in contact with the teeth.

They have what would be classified as “sensitive teeth.”

What Is Tooth Sensitivity?

There can be many causes behind tooth sensitivity, but they all involve enamel to some degree. In healthy teeth, enamel is the outer covering on the entire exposed portion of the tooth (the crown) above the gum line. Below the gumline, the tooth roots are not covered by enamel but by a layer called cementum. Throughout the entire tooth, the layer beneath the enamel/cementum is called the dentin.

Dentin isn’t meant to protect the teeth. It is less dense and there are small hollow canals throughout the dentin. The enamel has the job of keeping bacteria (and even hot or cold temperatures) from getting to the dentin. When the enamel or cementum thins or otherwise is compromised, the canals in the dentin allow heat and cold, or acidic foods, to come in contact with the nerves in the inner tooth. That’s where the unpleasant sensations come from.

Causes behind Your Sensitive Teeth

Tooth sensitivity can be traced to these causes in most patients:

• Tooth decay
• Fractured teeth
• Worn fillings
• Gum disease
• Worn tooth enamel
• Exposed tooth root

The common issue in those causes is lack of enamel. If decay breaks down the enamel…if a fractured tooth exposes the enamel…if enamel has thinned with age or prior dietary issues…these reasons all allow temperature sensations to reach the dentin and the nerves within.

What to Do?

Dr. Egger can recommend desensitizing toothpaste, or we can use a fluoride gel in office to strengthen your enamel. You may need a crown or an inlay or bonding to protect an exposed area. A gum graft could be needed to cover receding gums. Or if decay has invaded the tooth interior, a root canal is the only way to stop the pain.

Is it time for your next exam? Call Dr. Egger at (989) 773-3560 to schedule your appointment.