Dear Dr Jamalabad, There has been a continuous sensitivity feeling in my tooth when i drink something hot or cold. Will those Colgate Sensitive type toothpastes work?

Ans: Hi Ashish
You need to consult a Periodontist (a dentist who specialises in gum problems) or your general dentist. Only after a proper evaluation can the remedy be suggested. But most gum problems are treatable

Ans: Hello
The toothpaste you mentioned is a desensitizing toothpaste. It helps by forming a chemical barrier over the sensitive dentine, thus reducing the discomfort you feel when you have anything cold, sweet or sour. But it should be used daily for a sufficiently long period (typically a few weeks) to have the desired result.

Ans: If you're experiencing tooth sensitivity, consider consulting a dentist to determine the underlying cause and find the best solution.

Tooth sensitivity can be caused by various factors. Here are some common causes:

1. *Gum recession*: Exposed roots can cause sensitivity.
2. *Tooth decay*: Cavities can expose nerves, leading to sensitivity.
3. *Cracked teeth*: Cracks can allow bacteria to reach the pulp, causing sensitivity.
4. *Worn enamel*: Acid erosion or grinding can wear away enamel, exposing dentin. Aggressive brushing or using generous amounts of toothpaste can also damage enamel.
5. *Gum disease*: Inflammation and infection can cause sensitivity.
6. *Dental procedures*: Sensitivity can occur after procedures like fillings, crowns, or teeth whitening.
7. *Tooth grinding or clenching*: Grinding or clenching can wear away enamel and cause sensitivity.
8. *Acidic foods and drinks*: Consuming acidic foods and drinks can erode enamel.

Managing Tooth Sensitivity
If you're experiencing tooth sensitivity, consider:

1. Using a desensitizing toothpaste
2. Avoiding acidic foods and drinks
3. Practicing good oral hygiene
4. Visiting your dentist for a check-up and advice

Your dentist can help determine the underlying cause and recommend the best course of treatment.

Ans: Tooth sensitivity can be caused by enamel thinning amd/or receding gums.

Tooth sensitivity can be managed and potentially reduced with some simple steps:

Oral Care Habits
1. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Gentle brushing can help reduce further irritation.
2. Choose a desensitizing toothpaste: Look for products containing potassium nitrate or strontium chloride.
3. Brush correctly: Use gentle circular or vertical motions, avoiding harsh scrubbing.

Dietary Changes
1. Limit acidic foods and drinks: Avoid or reduce consumption of citrus fruits, soda, and sports drinks.
2. Avoid extreme temperatures: Try to consume food and drinks at room temperature.

Additional Tips
1. Visit your dentist: Identify underlying causes and receive personalized advice.
2. Consider a fluoride varnish or gel: Professional applications can help strengthen tooth enamel.
3. Avoid grinding or clenching: Wear a mouthguard if necessary to reduce teeth wear.

By following these steps, you can help alleviate tooth sensitivity and prevent it from worsening. Consult your dentist for further guidance.

Ans: Hello
Tooth sensitivity to hot/cold without pain or injury is not uncommon, even in your 30s.
It’s usually not a major crisis. And it's easily treatable. But it does indicate that the outermost protective layer (ENAMEL) of your teeth is compromised.

LIKELY CAUSES

1. EXPOSED DENTIN: Enamel wears down or gums recede, exposing the inner sensitive dentin.
2. GUM RECESSION : Aggressive brushing, grinding, or gum issues can pull gums back and expose tooth roots. Roots don’t have enamel.
3. ENAMEL EROSION : Acidic foods/drinks, acid reflux, or whitening products can thin enamel over time.
4. CRACKED FILLING or SMALL CAVITY : Might not hurt yet but still lets temperature through.
5. TEETH GRINDING /CLENCHING: Wears enamel and can cause microfractures.
6. RECENT DENTAL WORK: Cleanings, whitening, or fillings can cause temporary sensitivity for weeks.

What you can do right now:

- SWITCH TOOTHPASTE : Use a desensitizing toothpaste with potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride . Takes 2-4 weeks of daily use to really work.
- BRUSH GENTLER : Soft-bristle brush only. No scrubbing. Think "massage," not "scour."
- SKIP ACIDS: Avoid acidic food or beverages.
- FLUORIDE MOUTHWASH: OTC fluoride rinse at night helps strengthen enamel.
- CHECK FOR NIGHT GRINDING : If you wake with a sore jaw, ask your dentist about a night guard.

Red flags to book a dentist's appointment sooner: Sensitivity that lingers >30 sec, one specific tooth that’s way worse, visible gum recession, or if it keeps getting worse despite using desensitizing toothpaste.

A dentist can spot the exact cause and may do: fluoride varnish, bonding over exposed roots, treating gum disease, or replace a leaky filling.