SENSITIVITY
Dental sensitivity can be a troublesome problem for both patients and clinicians. In fact, more than 45 million adults in the United States suffer from sensitive teeth. This means that between 10% and 25% of people in the US experience some degree of discomfort. Dental sensitivity occurs when cells within dentinal tubules are stimulated (see Table). Unexposed dentin is covered by either enamel or cementum – the root or tooth surface, respectively.
Dentin Details
Dentin is comprised of calcified tissue, which surrounds dentinal tubules. It appears that more tubules are present on sensitive teeth, with many of these being patent, or open. It has been suggested that the number of dentinal tubules may influence the hypersensitivity of the dentine. The quality of dentinal tubules has been reported to be 30.000/mm², 20,000/mm² (peripherally) to 45,000/mm² (at the pulp), and 60,000/mm². These tubules are filled with fluid that is in constant motion and travels directly to the pulp. Various theories exist that explain how pain is transmitted from the surface of the tooth, where dentin is exposed, to the nerve fibers in the pulp. The most recognized theory is the hydrodynamic theory. It states that the fluid in exposed dentinal tubules contracts (with cold) or expands (with heat) when a stimulus is applied. While the fluid movement is minute, it is the quickness that leads to discomfort. The pain can vary in intensity from very mild to extremely severe.
Calming the Sensitivity Beast
There are a number of ways to help patients deal with their dental sensitivity. At-home use of a soft bristle toothbrush is the first step. Talking to patients about brushing at the proper angle and grasp versus grinding the bristles into the teeth can help as well. Limiting acidic and citrus foods and extreme hot and cold temperature foods are additional steps patients can take. Utilizing a desensitizing dentifrice can improve the situation.
Desensitizing dentifrices may contain ingredients such as potassium nitrate and strontium chloride. These agents create a precipitate on the tooth surface that occludes the patent dentinal tubules. Since the effect of desensitizing dentifrices is cumulative, the patient should be instructed to brush twice a day for at least one minute and to use the dentifrice for 4 to 6 weeks. Other desensitizing agents include silver nitrate, formalin, glycerin, potassium oxalate, and ferric oxalate. Fluoride is an additional desensitizing agent and is available in both patient–applied and in-office fluoride therapies. Sodium fluoride (NaF) and stannous fluoride (SnF2) products in gels, pastes, solutions, and varnishes can be used as stand-alone treatments, or a combination of procedures may be warranted, such as self-applied stannous fluoride gel plus in-office NaF varnish, depending on the severity of the problem. The clinician and patient must determine together the appropriate form of therapy.
Table
Potential Causes of Dental Exposure and Sensitivity
- Gingival recession due to periodontal infection
- Trauma from improper brush techniques
- Use of abrasive dentifrices
- Periodontal surgery
- The anatomy of the cementoenamel junction
- Orthodontic treatment
- Restorative procedures
- Oral surgery
- Consumption of highly acidic foods and drinks, such as citric fruits and some carbonated beverages
- Xerostomla, either through side effects caused by pharmaceutical agents, aging, or radiation therapy
Now your dentist can easily eliminate tooth sensitivity caused by enamel erosion.
Don’t you feel better already?
The most common cause of sensitive teeth (or “dentinal hypersensitivity” as it’s called by dentists) is the exposure of the sensitive part of the tooth called the “dentin.” The dentin is made up of thousands of microscopic passageways that lead to the tooth’s nerve center. These passageways, known as tubules, are normally covered and protected by the tooth’s enamel and the surrounding gums. But when the dentin is exposed, and your teeth come in contact with something hot, cold or sweet, the tubules carry the sensation directly to the tooth’s nerves and cause pain.
A simple, painless procedure eliminates tooth sensitivity.
Gluma® Desensitizer stops dentinal sensitivity in two ways. First, by mimicking the protective action of the tooth’s enamel by plugging and protecting the tubules so that sensitivity and pain disappear. Second, Gluma Desensitizer blocks tubules deeper than other desensitizer blocks tubules deeper than other desensitizers. The more deeply the tubules are blocked, the deeper and longer lasting the desensitization. The Gluma Desensitizer formula is unique, it is patented and it works.
Eliminates sensitivity in many situations.
Gumline abrasion.
The enamel where the tooth meets the gum can become worn away, either by hard brushing or by the natural effects of age, causing exposure of dentin, which results in hypersensitivity. Gluma Desensitizer is specifically formulated so your dentist can quickly, simply and painlessly stop the sensitivity and prevent it from recurring.
Fillings.
Your dentist can use Gluma® Desensitizer as part of the filling process. This greatly reduces the chance of after-filling pain caused by dentinal hypersensitivity.
Tooth inlays or crowns.
Even if you need a more complex restoration, dentinal hypersensitivity won’t be a worry. Your dentist can use Gluma Desensitizer to keep you free from this pain.
Millions of satisfied patients agree.
Over 30 million patients worldwide have been treated with Gluma Desensitizer, and thousands more every day are spared tooth pain, thanks to Gluma Desensitizer.
Sims Dental Clinic
115 West Walnut
Tecumseh, OK 74873
405-598-6518
lnk