Sensitive teeth explained

The dentine, also called dentin, lies under the enamel and under the outer layer of the tooth root. When dentin is free, stimuli can lead to a short pain reaction via small canals in the dentine. This can occur on an exposed tooth neck, for example. However, a sensitive tooth does not necessarily have an exposed tooth neck. The practice checks which change fits the pain. [1] Our treatments include Prophylaxis at smileDentity.

Caries, cracks or fillings other than explanation

If a tooth hurts when chewing at a certain point, the stress on the tooth may be important for classification. In case of caries or damaged care, cold and sweetness can also cause discomfort. A crack may be different from a pure sensitivity on the neck. The cause cannot be reliably identified by a single trigger. [1] [2]

If multiple teeth are affected

Sensitivity can also affect multiple sites simultaneously. The condition of the gum line and signs of wear are relevant. After certain treatments, sensitivity may occur temporarily; if it becomes stronger or does not decrease as expected, you should report. Name whether multiple teeth have become sensitive at the same time or if the pain originates from one site. [1] [3]

Watch the pattern

A short pulling in cold air can be classified differently than a pain that lasts longer after drinking or starts at night without any discernible occasion. If the tooth is sensitive to bite, a crack and existing supplies should also be considered during the examination. [1] [2] [3]

Try to observe before the appointment, which triggers the pain, how long it will last and whether it will occur without stimulus. Cold, hot, sweet, air and touch are different indications. If necessary, the practice also checks how the tooth reacts to bites, knocks and cold stimuli. Further investigations, such as an X-ray, will be decided upon. [2]

Short and stabbing or persistent

A short pain, which disappears rapidly with the absence of stimulus, can fit into exposed dentin. Longer persistent, spontaneous or nocturnal symptoms raise other questions. If pain increases, interferes with sleep or occurs with swelling, report this promptly. The exact pattern helps even if the aching tooth is difficult to assign. [2]

Do not repeat stimuli unnecessarily

A description from your everyday life is sufficient for the conversation. There is no need to deliberately provoke the pain several times with ice cream or very hot drinks. A hint of whether the tooth hurts while biting or letting go can be helpful in the appointment. Also say if filling or other treatment has taken place recently at the site. [2]

In the case of exposed dentin, a gentle cleaning technique, suitable toothpaste or dental protective measures are considered depending on the cause. If there is a defect, inflammation or a crack, the cause will be treated differently. Therefore, it makes sense to have a newly emerging one-sided sensitivity first clarified, instead of switching exclusively to another toothpaste. [1] [2]

Checking the load in everyday life

In the case of frequent contact with acidic beverages or indications of melting wear, the stress on the surface is also relevant. The practice can show where to clean more gently and whether further assessment is useful. Avoid cleaning sensitive areas to the sample more vigorously. The decisive factor is to protect dental surfaces and yet remove the surface regularly. [1] [3]

What a check after first measures brings

If a protective agent or other care has been recommended, it is useful to assess the effect after an agreed period of time. Tell if the pain has shortened, if it continues to come from the same spot, or if new triggers have been added. If the symptoms remain unchanged, the practice can check whether a different cause has to be sought first. [1] [2]