Sensitive Teeth FAQ's

	What is tooth sensitivity?
	Who suffers from sensitive teeth?
	How do I know if I have sensitive teeth?
	Why can’t you just avoid sensitive teeth?
	What causes teeth to be sensitive?
	What are some stimuli that can trigger pain from sensitive teeth?
	How do I treat sensitive teeth?

What is tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is tooth pain due to the wearing away of gum tissue. As we age, our gums start to recede, exposing the root of the tooth. This can make teeth more sensitive because the root is not covered by enamel therefore exposing the tooth's nerves. As your teeth come in contact with hot and cold food or drinks you feel pain.

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Who suffers from sensitive teeth?

Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common complaints dentists hear from their patients today. In fact one out of every five adults claims to suffer from pain caused by sensitive teeth. Sensitive teeth can start hurting as early as in your 20’s. The teeth most commonly affected are “canines” and “premolars”.

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How do I know if I have sensitive teeth?

If you have pain in your teeth after drinking or eating hot or cold food and drinks, you have experienced tooth sensitivity.

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Why can’t you just avoid sensitive teeth?

Tooth sensitivity can cause improper brushing which could lead to a progression of problems including:

• plaque buildup
• gingivitis
• periodontal disease
• tooth loss

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What causes teeth to be sensitive?

Sensitive teeth pain occurs when exposed sensory nerves in the tooth react to various stimuli. The layer of the tooth under the enamel is called the “dentin”. Microscopic tubules act like tiny straws located in the dentin. They contain fluid and nerve endings. Dentin can be exposed as gum tissue recedes or when the enamel is worn away – often by aggressive tooth brushing. When stimuli like cold food or beverages or you make contact with the exposed dentin, they cause the fluid in the dentinal tubules to move rapidly outward, resulting in sensitive teeth pain.

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What are some stimuli that can trigger pain from sensitive teeth?

The following list of stimuli can lead to pain from sensitive teeth:

• Cold foods or beverages
• Contact with exposed dentin when brushing for instance
• Cosmetic whitening / bleaching
• Overly aggressive brushing causing tooth abrasion
• Receding gums
• Plaque and bacteria
• Gingivitis
• Periodontal disease
• Teeth clenching or grinding
• Dry mouth
• Cracked or chipped teeth

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How do I treat sensitive teeth?

Sensitive teeth can be treated by using Orajel Advanced Tooth Desensitizer or brushing with Orajel Sensitive Pain Relieving Toothpaste for adults.

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