Reason for the Occurrence of Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity happens to affect 40% of the adult population. This condition is also referred to as dentin hypersensitivity. And if you look at different surveys, you will be able to find that women are affected by this problem more than the men. Tooth sensitivity usually involves sharp pain originating from the tooth or teeth.

Cause of tooth sensitivity

Before we talk about the cause of tooth sensitivity, it would be worth mentioning the four main parts of the tooth. These parts can be better termed as layers. The visible crown consists of the tooth enamel which is the hardest layer of the tooth.This layer is composed of calcium phosphate mineral. The second layer, which is located beneath the tooth enamel, is the dentin. It is a porous layer and it is softer than the tooth enamel. However, it is still stronger than the cementum. Cementum is the third layer which is present in the root area. It anchors the teeth into the jawbone. The forth layer is the pulp which consists of nerves, blood vessels and connective tissues.

Loss of enamel, gum recession and loss of cementum are the major factors that cause tooth sensitivity. Gum recession happens due to the loss of periodontal attachment. Gum disease and abrasive brushing are the major culprits that can cause this loss of periodontal attachment.

Enamel loss is another reason for the increased tooth sensitivity.Loss of enamel is either due to abrasive brushing of teeth or due to tooth decay.The thinned out enamel doesn’t put much of a resistance against the hot and cold temperatures, and this temperature change is sensed by the tooth pulp due to porous structure of the dentin. Enamel tends to erode more quickly when you brush your teeth immediately after consuming acidic foods.

Instances that cause tooth sensitivity

Exposure of dentin due to gum recession or worn down tooth enamel is the primary cause of tooth sensitivity. Dentin contains small tubules which end at the inner chamber of the tooth. This inner chamber contains tooth pulp. Exposure of dentin results in the flowing out of dentin fluid outward from the tooth pulp. Interaction of this fluid with the external stimulus such as heat, cold, change in pressure, and sweetness or sourness of foods triggers the transmission of signals which travel to the tooth pulp. These signals are perceived as pain.

In case you feel sensitivity in your teeth, you need to visit your dentist immediately. Although you may be able to get the pain inhibited with the help of over-the-counter medicines and other remedies for tooth sensitivity, you are going to need a long term solution which is only available through professional dental care.