In response to our arctic invasion this week, I’ve dedicated this month’s blog post to discussing cold sensitivity! We see it all the time, and treatments generally range from quick, easy desensitizer treatment, all the way to root canal or gum grafting. Don’t let that scare you, but let’s talk about it!
The Culprit Of Tooth Sensitivity
Cold sensitivity usually strikes at the worst possible time.
Imagine this: You are sipping a cup of your favorite beverage, but instead of being refreshing, it suddenly turns into a nerve-chilling experience
Without delving into too much technical detail, the sensation of cold tooth sensitivity is linked to a receptor channel known as TRCP5. But know this, the receptor channel plays a crucial role in transmitting signals related to temperature changes.
This channel is present in the porous regions of the tooth, namely the dentin and cementum. Tooth sensitivity occurs when the protective covering over these areas is compromised, with enamel safeguarding the dentin and gum tissue covering the cementum.
To understand tooth sensitivity, it’s crucial to recognize that dentin and cementum are integral components of your tooth anatomy. Dentin lies beneath the enamel, forming the core of the tooth, while cementum covers the tooth roots and is normally protected by the surrounding gum tissue.
When these protective coverings are compromised or lost, as can happen due to factors such as enamel erosion or receding gums, the TRCP5 receptor channels in the dentin and cementum become exposed. Ouch!
This intricate interplay of enamel, dentin, cementum, and the TRCP5 receptor channels underscores the delicate balance that contributes to your tooth sensitivity.
As a result, temperature changes like exposure to cold, can directly stimulate these uncovered receptor channels, triggering sensations of discomfort or pain.
Maintaining the integrity of the protective layers is key to preventing or alleviating tooth sensitivity. It highlights the importance of oral care practices and regular dental check-ups to preserve the health of these vital components and ensure a comfortable and pain-free lifestyle.
Now that you understand the mechanism that leads to tooth sensitivity, it is important to understand the underlying causes that lead to this oral phenomenon. After all, why would we lose these protective covers in the first place? Is there way we can prevent this from happening?
There is a delicate balanced that must be maintained to prevent cold sensitivity from sneaking up on you and ruining your experience with your favorite cold beverage.
We lose these natural barriers for a few reasons. Tooth enamel can be eroded over time by attrition in teeth grinders, acidic erosion due to diet or GERD, brushing too hard, or poor oral hygiene, which leads to tooth decay!
Gum tissue also can be eroded by inflammation caused by abrasion from brushing too hard or gum disease.
The Quest for Relief
Now, onto the epic quest for cold sensitivity relief! There are certain particles that can plug this porous dentin and minimize the hydrodynamic pressures caused by temperature changes on our TRCP5 channels (as we mentioned above).
The first is – potassium nitrate. This is generally found in products like Sensodyne.
Pro Tip: Brush with Sensodyne at night before bed. Spit. Don’t rinse! Then, go to bed. This protocol will allow a thin layer of potassium nitrate to sit on your teeth overnight to give the potassium nitrate more time to work.
The second is – glutaraldehyde. This is a supercharged particle that accomplishes a similar task. I call it industrial strength desensitizer. We have this product in our office. We’ll often combine this with fluoride treatment, which re-mineralizes tooth structure to give it more consistency and durability.
Armoring Up Your Dental Care Habits
Regular brushing and flossing can help remove plaque buildup, which is the main cause of gum or periodontal disease.
“Gentle” brushing (don’t press too hard) using a “soft-bristled” toothbrush in circular motions will help protect your tooth enamel from decay and ensure healthy gum tissue. Gum Inflammation occurs not only as a result of abrasions but also as a result of gum diseases.
Remember to floss daily because removing food particles between your teeth is also important.
Also, eating a balanced diet and avoiding a diet full of sugary and acidic foods can help maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Finally, regular visits to the dentist are important to detect and treat any issues early. Regular visits to your dentist for check-ups and cleanings are also important to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Your quest for a sensitivity-free smile has just begun. Arm yourself with knowledge, embrace your dental routine, and let your smile shine bright without fearing the cold. Unlike outside right now.
It’s a frigid 21 degrees in South Texas. I know other parts of the country laugh at us, but we’d much rather have our typical 80-degree days with a cool sea breeze.
To learn more or to schedule your personalized plan, contact us! Together, we shall banish cold sensitivity and usher in a warm, radiant era for your teeth.
Until next time, stay warm, keep smiling! Nice warm weather is right around the corner.
