DENTAL HYPERSENSITIVITY
It is a common evil that we see every day in the office. More or less intense, more or less localized, dental hypersensitivity is sometimes very disabling. To understand it, you have to know the anatomy of the tooth and more particularly the structure of the dentin.
Dentin: the origin of sensitivities
Dentin is the underlying layer of the enamel, it makes up the majority of the crown and root. It is 30% less mineralized than enamel, therefore less hard, less resistant and less impervious to external stimuli. The dentin is crossed by a multitude of tubulis (small tubes) organized in a network perpendicular to the “dentin / enamel” junction.
Dental hypersensitivity occurs when dentin is directly exposed in the mouth. In fact, the “tubulis” canals communicate with the dental nerve. When external triggers such as cold drinks are in direct contact with dentin, this causes brief pain of varying intensity.
Moreover, scientists do not speak of dental hypersensitivity but of dentin hypersensitivity.
What are the factors favoring hypersensitivity?
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Traumatic brushing, which wears down the enamel layer early,
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Abrasive toothpastes: in particular toothpastes with “whitening” properties, be careful with the prolonged use of bicarbonate and charcoal, which are very fashionable at the moment,
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Toothpastes low in fluoride and without minerals,
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Bruxism (or teeth grinding),
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The presence of cracks on the teeth,
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Gum recessions,
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Caries (stage 1 and 2),
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A diet that is too sweet and acidic,
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Frequent gastroesophageal reflux,
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Bulimia causing vomiting,
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Chemotherapy and radiotherapy can also cause tooth sensitivity due to reduced saliva.
How to act?
Very often, once the diagnosis has been made and the factors identified, it is simple to remedy the hypersensitivity. The processing will arise from the problem(s) that we have identified with you.
Miracle toothpastes?
Some well-known toothpastes and mouthwashes on the market reduce the symptoms of dental hypersensitivity by partially sealing the exposed dentinal tubules. We will then recommend toothpastes that contain tin fluoride. You may have to try several models before finding the one that suits you.
Please note: reducing the symptoms is one thing, identifying the causes is another and it is by determining these that we will provide you with long-term relief.
Today it is difficult on your supermarket shelf not to give in to the marketing sirens of all toothpaste brands. Avoid "anti-tartar" or "whitening" toothpastes which tend to increase the sensitivity level of your teeth because they are generally more abrasive products. We remain at your disposal to advise you the toothpaste that will suit you the best.
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