|
What is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is tooth pain due to a
wearing away of the tooth's surface or gum tissue. The most common
cause of sensitive teeth in adults is exposed tooth roots due to
receding gums. Because these roots are not covered by enamel,
thousands of tiny channels leading to the tooth's nerve center
(pulp) are exposed. When heat, cold or pressure touches these
channels, you feel pain.
Ignoring your sensitive teeth can
lead to other oral health problems. This is especially true if the
pain causes you to brush poorly, making you vulnerable to tooth
decay and gum disease.
How do I know if I have Sensitive
Teeth?
If you've ever felt a painful sensation in your
teeth after drinking or eating hot or cold food and beverages,
you've experienced tooth sensitivity. And you're not alone. It's a
condition that affects one out of four adults, often coming and
going over time. |
