WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF DENTAL SENSITIVITY?
○ Exposure of the root of the tooth due to recession of the gums

○ Hard and incorrect brushing of teeth

○ Cracks or fractures in the teeth

○ Presence of initial caries on teeth

○ Acid erosion

○ Clenching (go to Jaw joint disorders and treatment page)

SYMPTOMS OF TOOTH SENSITIVITY AND WEAR?
The enamel tissue of the teeth near the gingiva can be eroded for various reasons. Signs of tooth wear;

○ The sensitivity of the teeth to cold increases.

○ Tooth wear is often accompanied by gingival recession.

○ The tooth tissue near the gingival margin is worn and yellowed. An indentation (cavity) is formed in the tooth close to the gingiva.

○ Presence of initial caries on teeth

○ Cases of pitting and sensitivity may develop on the chewing surfaces of the teeth in the posterior region.

CAN TOOTH SENSITIVITY AND WEAR BE PREVENTED?
○ Back and forth (horizontal) or up-down (vertical) brushing in a single area should be avoided. All tooth surfaces (cheek, tongue-palate and chewing surfaces) are cleaned by massaging the teeth with 7-8 circular movements in one area and shifting one brush length forward.

○ A medium or soft toothbrush should be used.

○ Use fluoride-containing gel type (reduced abrasive) or desensitizing toothpaste to prevent tooth wear. People who brush their teeth too hard for whitening can be prescribed a whitening toothpaste recommended by the dentist. Fluoride mouthwashes can also be used.

○ Teeth should not be brushed immediately after acidic foods and beverages. Teeth can be brushed after 2-3 hours.

○ Acidic (fizzy) drinks should be drunk with a straw.

○ In teeth with a lot of enamel loss, light composites (white filling) should be made due to the increased sensitivity due to the exposure of the yellow tissue (dentin) below.

○ If it is determined that the patient is clenching or grinding the teeth, a night plate should be prepared.

○ If the person does not like the color of their teeth or brushes their teeth too hard to whiten them; After tooth wear is covered with light fillings, whitening can be applied.

WHAT DOES THE TREATMENT PLAN CONTAIN FOR DENTAL SENSITIVITY AND ABRASION?
○ First of all, the physician reveals the cause of the problem.

○ It tries to keep the individual away from behaviors or habits that cause sensitivity.

○ Solutions or varnishes containing desensitizing fluoride can be applied to exposed root surfaces.

○ Can perform laser application.

○ If necessary, it removes the sensitivity by making various restorations here.

IF YOU HAVE DENTAL SENSITIVITY, IS IT NECESSARY TO GO TO THE DENTIST?
In order for the sensitivity to not progress and to be completely eliminated, the cause must be determined. If the sensitivity is caused by caries, gingival recession or tooth wear, the necessary teeth should be treated. Therefore, people with sensitivity should consult their dentist.