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Dentin hypersensitivity is caused by stimulation of cells located in the dentin, the layer of tissue found beneath the tooth's hard enamel. When enamel is worn down or gums have receded, root surfaces may be exposed. In addition, repeated exposure to hot and cold can cause teeth to expand and contract, leading to microscopic cracks. When any of these conditions occur, eating and drinking hot and cold foods and beverages and touching your teeth or exposing them to cold air can be painful.
If you find that a tooth is sensitive to hot and cold, it's best to get a diagnostic evaluation from your dentist to rule out more serious problems such as a cavity or abscess.
If you are diagnosed with dentin hypersensitivity, your dentist may seal the sensitive area with cement or plastic. Or, you may be prescribed a special fluoride gel or an over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste containing potassium nitrate or strontium chloride. These ingredients block transmission of sensation from the tooth to the nerve. It may also help to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and to massage the special gel onto your gums after brushing. If cold air is the cause of pain, breathing through the nose instead of mouth may be helpful.
Courtesy of the Academy of General Dentistry (www.agd.org).
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