The Causes and Treatments of Teeth Sensitivity - Al Siraj Medical Center

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What is teeth sensitivity?

Teeth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, is a common dental issue that occurs when the dentin (the underlying layer of your teeth) gets exposed to certain stimuli. This can be caused by gum recession or erosion.

Teeth sensitivity is also a clear indicator of a dental problem the patient is facing, such as gum disease, cavities, and cracked teeth, to name a few.

This condition affects millions of people worldwide and significantly impacts their daily activities, such as eating, drinking, and brushing their teeth.

What causes sensitive teeth?

Some individuals genetically have a thin enamel, which is more likely to be affected by some practices like:

• Brushing teeth too hard
• Using a hard toothbrush
• Teeth grinding while sleeping
• Constantly consuming acidic foods and beverages

Teeth sensitivity can also be caused by other conditions such as:

Gum Recession: Receding gums can leave the tooth roots exposed and unprotected, which can cause tooth sensitivity.

Tooth Decay and Damage: Tooth decay, cavities, cracks, chips, or a worn-down dental crown can uncover the dentin, causing sensitivity. In this particular case, the sensitivity is usually found in a specific area of the mouth (where the tooth is damaged).

Dental Procedures: Certain dental procedures, like teeth whitening, fillings, or veneers, can cause temporary sensitivity that will go away after a few hours or days. You'll notice sensitivity only on the teeth area that received dental work.

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What Are The Symptoms of Sensitive Teeth?

People suffering from sensitive teeth will feel pain and discomfort at the roots or around the affected teeth, and the triggers are usually:

• When the individual consumes hot (coffee, tea), cold (Ice cream), acidic (citrus fruits) or sweet (candy) foods and beverages.
• When the individual is brushing or flossing his teeth.
• When the individual is using alcohol-based mouth rinses.

What Are the Treatments For Teeth Sensitivity

- Desensitizing Toothpaste: Specially formulated toothpaste can help block the transmission of sensations from the tooth surface to the nerve.

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- Fluoride Treatments: Professional fluoride treatments can help strengthen the enamel and reduce sensitivity.

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- Dental Bonding: In some cases, applying a bonding agent to exposed root surfaces can protect the teeth from sensitivity.

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- Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques can help prevent further enamel erosion and gum recession.

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- Avoid Acidic Foods and Drinks: Limiting consumption of acidic foods and beverages can help protect the enamel from erosion.

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- Mouthguards: Wearing a mouthguard at night can prevent teeth grinding, which can contribute to sensitivity.

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- Root canal. If your sensitive teeth are causing you severe pain despite trying other treatments, your dentist may resort to a root canal — a procedure used to treat problems in the tooth's soft core (dental pulp). This treatment is known to be the most effective procedure for eliminating tooth sensitivity.

Treat Teeth Sensitivity At Al Siraj Medical Center

Now comes the most complicated part! Where can I treat sensitive teeth in Qatar? Well, Al Siraj Medical Center comes to the rescue!

We offer many safe options to relieve teeth sensitivity. You can discuss this with our expert dentists, and based on your condition, they'll provide you with a suitable treatment. You will see that our friendly team is happy to help when you get in touch for an appointment.

Or if you prefer contacting us directly, feel free to give us a call at +974 44493666.

Sensitive Teeth FAQs

• What do sensitive teeth feel like?

Pain can be sharp and sudden and shoot deep into tooth nerve endings.

• How to remove sensitivity from teeth at home?

You can help manage tooth sensitivity at home by brushing your teeth twice a day with toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and applying clove oil to sensitive areas with a cotton swab for pain relief.

• Can tooth sensitivity go away?

Yes, in some cases, teeth sensitivity goes away on its own — particularly when a recent dental procedure, such as a filling or root canal, causes it.

• Why are my teeth sensitive all of a sudden?

The most often cause of sudden tooth sensitivity is the thinner enamel they have on their teeth.