DENTINAL HYPERSENSITIVITY

What is it?
o Exposed dentin that is sensitive to various stimuli.
o Dentin is composed of numerous thin tubules (long tubes) that
transverse from the pulp to the outer dentinal surface.
o Occurs when the nerves in the dentin of a tooth are exposed to the
environment.
o Characterized by short, sharp pain, arising from exposed dentin, that
occurs in response to stimuli: hot, cold, sugars.
o Affects 1 out of every 5 adults in the U.S.

What causes it?

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Gingival recession
Expose dentin
Thin enamel / Loss of enamel
Improper tooth brushing
Diet high in acidic foods
Cosmetic whitening (80%)
Eating disorders, such as bulimia
Acid reflux
Periodontal disease

What triggers it?

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Cold or hot food and drinks

Sugary foods
Acidic foods
Cold air
Contact with metal instruments

What can I do about it?

o Cessation of destructive habits (smokeless tobacco, diets high in
acid/sugar, carbonated beverages, brushing too hard)
o Avoid grinding your teeth
o Use a softer toothbrush
o In office treatments such as the use of dental sealants or fluoride
varnish.
o Twice-daily use of a desensitizing dentifrice (toothpaste/mouthwash)
o The two most common ingredients are potassium nitrate, which
interferes with the transmission of the nerve impulse, and stannous
fluoride, which blocks dentinal tubules by forming a smear layer at
the surface.