Dental hypersensitivity

Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) or Dental Sensitivity is defined as an intense and passing dental pain caused by exposition of the dentin (inner face of the tooth) to the oral environment and which appears after contact with external stimulus: cold or hot food or drinks, acids, candy; tactile pressure, brushing and even breathing cold air.

One in seven adults has experienced sharp pain on the teeth, when touching them or when eating cold or hot drinks, acids or candy; with the aggravating factor that the condition can lead to the apparition of oral diseases, like dental cavities, gingivitis or periodontitis.

This happens when dentine protection (thousands of microscopic tubes that connect the exterior face of the tooth to nerve endings) is lost, due to the retraction of the gum and the loss of root cement and dental varnish.  The pain it causes when contacting food and other elements, ’is called “dental sensitivity” or “dentine hypersensitivity”.

There are many reasons for dental sensitivity; but it’s usually explained by the person’s lifestyle, habits and dental hygiene. For example:

  • The strength and frequency of brushing.
  • The usage of a very aggressive toothpaste, which affects the varnish.
  • The consumption of food and drinks with acids, like citric juices and carbonic sodas.
  • Too much strength while chewing.
  • General pathologies or certain situations cause an acid oral environment, like stomach (ulcers, hiatus hernia, etc.), psychological (bulimia, nervous anorexia) or professional (wine tasters, bakers, etc.).
  • Gingival recessions caused by dental treatments, such as dental cleaning or orthodontics.
  •  A simple anatomic anomaly which leaves the dentine uncovered.

The period of pain caused by dental sensitivity is short, they virtually only last during the contact with the aliment, brush or cold air; but they are recurring and bothersome conditions that, as previously said, can be attributed to underlying pathologies, such as dental cavities.

Dental consultation is essential to determine if the pain comes from sensitivity or other pathologies, and the corresponding treatment. That is where the importance of choosing a clinic specialized in dental treatment lies, making sure that it provides excellent service on all offered treatments, as well as specialized staff in all departments.

In Dental Alfa Clinic we have wide experience of more than 14 years in all our services. We are a certified “Green Clinic” company and we hope to give all our clients the best service.

We invite you to contact us. We’re here to serve you!