Dentin hypersensitivity : Sensitive teeth – help and causes

A toothpaste containing ‘artificial enamel’ helps to reduce sensitivity. It contains hydroxyapatite, which is modelled on our natural enamel.  

Studies show that hydroxyapatite is the most effective ingredient in dental care products for reducing tooth sensitivity. With regular use, microscopic defects responsible for transmitting sensitivity are sealed, and the enamel surface is repaired with every brush. 

A mouthwash not only freshens your breath, but also removes bacteria from hard-to-reach areas that can lead to receding gums.  

Unlike mouthwash, mouth rinse is supplied ready-to-use in the recommended dosage and does not need to be diluted. Solutions that contain not only antibacterial agents but also hydroxyapatite provide additional strength to the tooth surface and help prevent tooth sensitivity. 

Toothpastes designed to whiten teeth contain a high proportion of abrasive particles, which, whilst they remove plaque, can also damage the tooth structure.

The right brushing technique can make a significant difference for sensitive teeth. This is because people often apply too much pressure when brushing or scrub vigorously back and forth with their toothbrush.  

It is better to brush from red to white using less pressure – that is, from the gums towards the teeth. Also pay attention to how you hold the toothbrush. If you clench your hand into a fist, you will quickly apply too much pressure. It is better to hold the manual toothbrush with just your fingertips to avoid causing damage whilst brushing. 

Gentle brushing is easier with a toothbrush designed for sensitive teeth. However, choosing the right one is not straightforward and should be done in consultation with the experts at your dentist’s surgery. 

After all, even soft bristles can cause abrasions. Some electric toothbrushes are also fitted with sensors that warn you if you’re applying too much pressure. However, even in this case, leaving the brush on a tooth for too long can damage the enamel. 

Make sure you attend your regular check-ups at the dentist. This allows dental problems, gum inflammation and exposed tooth necks to be detected at an early stage, so that appropriate treatment can be initiated.  

If you have already noticed that your teeth are sensitive, please speak to your dentist or dental hygienist about it. They can identify the exact cause – for example, abrasion, erosion or recession. 

If you suffer damage caused by unconscious or nocturnal teeth grinding, a mouthguard or ‘grinding guard’ can help.  

It is custom-fitted to your teeth by your dentist and is therefore comfortable to wear. The mouthguard acts as a buffer between the chewing surfaces, reducing friction and protecting the tooth surface. Some health insurance providers may even cover the full cost of its manufacture. 

Exposed tooth necks are not covered by hard enamel and are therefore particularly sensitive.  

To protect the dentine from external irritants, dentists can seal it with a special varnish or gel. Studies show that products containing hydroxyapatite are the most effective.  

In the case of so-called wedge-shaped defects, a composite resin filling can also be used. 

Smoking not only has a negative impact on health and the cardiovascular system, but also on the teeth.  

The gums receive less blood flow and become prone to inflammation. As a result, they recede, which contributes to dentine hypersensitivity. 

As acids make tooth enamel porous, patients with sensitive teeth should try to cut down on acidic foods. These include soft drinks, coffee, citrus fruits and various berries such as raspberries, blackberries and redcurrants.  

Foods high in sugar should also be eaten less frequently, as the sugar is also converted into acid by the bacteria in the mouth. 

It is impossible to completely avoid consuming acids through food. What’s more, acidic fruits such as cherries, kiwis and the like also contain other important nutrients.  

You can at least mitigate the effects of acid to some extent. For example, by eating wholemeal products, you can stimulate saliva production, which helps to neutralise the acid. Alternatively, you could drink a glass of milk or have some natural yoghurt with your fruit. The calcium found in dairy products also helps to neutralise acids. 

Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body – but it wears away over time. Find out what causes tooth enamel to break down, why it doesn’t regenerate on its own, and how the right toothpaste can repair minor defects.

Healthy gums do not bleed. Find out what causes bleeding gums, when you should see a dentist, and how you can prevent it with the right care.

Tooth enamel consists of 97 per cent hydroxyapatite – and cannot regenerate on its own. Find out how artificial tooth enamel has been developed using the principles of bionics, and how it repairs defects, reduces pain and protects teeth.