CAUSES OF DENTIN HYPERSENSTIVITY
When teeth are sensitive, pain is a signal from the nerves within. Their vital enamel surface hasworn away, exposing the living structures underneath, causing hypersensitivity pain. Enamel wear occurs over time abrasion, attrition or erosion.
Here are some of the ways in which this can happen.
• Receding gums and gum disease: When gums recede, they leave the dentin exposed. The most common cause of this is an overzealous brushing technique.
• Grinding teeth: You may not consciously grind your teeth, but it can contribute to tooth hypersensitivity. When you grind your teeth, you slowly wear away at the enamel, exposing the dentin below.
• Cracked teeth: A cracked tooth not only exposes your dentin to potentially painful stimuli, but it can be incredibly painful in itself. If you think you have cracked a tooth, book an appointment with your dentist immediately.
• Enamel erosion: Enamel is the white, protective outer layer of your teeth. There are various causes of enamel erosion, from the food and drink we consume, to brushing too hard.
• Cavities: Tooth decay occurs when plaque turns sugars into acid, which can cause problems such as holes in your teeth and gum disease, as well as heightening sensitivity.