If you experience sharp, shooting pain in your teeth you may suffer from dentine sensitivity.
Tooth pain is caused either by a problem with the tooth’s nerve or blood supply, or simply by dentine sensitivity. This condition can affect up to one in two people at some point in their lives, according to the Virtual Medical Centre.
Dentine is the sponge-like material that connects the root canal pulp to the surrounding tissue. If part of it is exposed, it can cause sensitivity. Dentine sensitivity is most common in people in their twenties and thirties. It can be triggered by:
- Cold food or drinks
- Acidic food or drinks
- Brushing
- Cold air
Causes
- Too vigorous brushing
- Tooth erosion
- Plaque build-up
- Teeth grinding
- Receding gums
- Tooth whitening procedures
Treatment
Fortunately changes in the dentine over time make it less sensitive. If you have sensitive teeth you can try the following:
- Using a softer toothbrush
- Using a desensitising toothpaste
- Using fluoridated dental products.
Never ignore dental pain. Always have it checked by a dentist.
