Teeth can cause intense pain for patients from London, with sudden sharp strikes emanating from the roots or nerve endings. Common triggers are temperatures, such as the air breathed in and hot or cold foods. Tooth roots containing dentinal tubules transmit stimuli to the tooth’s nerve centre and are covered by dentin for protection. When dentin becomes exposed due to enamel erosion, the dentinal tubules are also exposed and transmit sensitive stimuli straight to the nerve endings, which is felt as sharp pain. Knowing what causes tooth sensitivity can help identify how best to prevent tooth pain.

Common causes of enamel erosion and dentin exposure

Enamel erosion is the underlying cause of tooth sensitivity and is triggered by age, how teeth are brushed, the condition of the teeth, oral health, products, foods and certain dental treatments. These include:

• Wear of tooth enamel over time with age.
• Foods high in acids.
• Toothbrush bristle consistency and hard brushing technique.
• Mouthwash and teeth whitening products.
• Plaque and tartar build-up.
• Receding gums and gum disease.
• Broken or fractured teeth.
• Teeth grinding.
• Teeth scaling and root procedures.

Managing and preventing tooth sensitivity

How we choose to care for our teeth can determine the health of our teeth and their protection from enamel erosion:

• Using a toothbrush with softer bristles and a gentler technique can reduce tooth sensitivity. As can using toothpaste specifically made to ease tooth sensitivity.
• Avoiding excessive home teeth whitening with products high in peroxide, which prevents dentin exposure.
• Seeking professional advice about teeth whitening and having it done under dentist supervision is a safer for tooth protection.
• Having regular dental hygiene check-ups and practising oral hygiene can prevent, not only the need to scale teeth, but also prevent gum diseases.
• Early intervention may save teeth from cracking or fracturing.
• Certain dental treatments may cause temporary tooth tenderness, but the long-term oral health benefits outweigh the temporary tooth sensitivity.
• Wearing a mouth-guard for teeth grinding can prevent further enamel erosion.

If you suffer with tooth pain and sensitivity, our team can provide you with options on what to do about the discomfort and advise on the best oral health routine.