Dentin, the layer beneath your tooth enamel, can be damaged by several factors. Exposure of dentin leads to tooth sensitivity, a common dental problem.
Major Causes of Dentin Damage
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Enamel Erosion: The protective enamel layer can wear away due to factors like aggressive brushing, tooth grinding (bruxism), and acidic foods and drinks. This exposes the underlying dentin, making teeth sensitive to temperature changes and other stimuli. [Source: Preventing And Treating Exposed Dentin, Colgate] [Source: Dentin Hypersensitivity: Causes, Treatment and Prevention, Essenmacher Dental] [Source: Sensitive Teeth: Causes, Remedies & Treatments Available, Cleveland Clinic]
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Gum Recession: Receding gums expose the root surface of the tooth, which contains dentin. This is a major cause of dentin sensitivity. [Source: Dentin hypersensitivity: Causes, symptoms, and treatment, Medical News Today] [Source: What is Tooth Dentin and What Does it Do? Issues & Treatments, Hove Dental Clinic]
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Aggressive Brushing: Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too hard can wear away enamel and damage dentin. Gentle brushing is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. [Source: Dentin Hypersensitivity: Causes, Treatment and Prevention, Essenmacher Dental] [Source: What is Tooth Dentin and What Does it Do? Issues & Treatments, Hove Dental Clinic]
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Tooth Grinding (Bruxism): This habit wears away tooth enamel, eventually exposing the dentin. [Source: Preventing And Treating Exposed Dentin, Colgate] [Source: Dentin Hypersensitivity: Causes, Treatment and Prevention, Essenmacher Dental]
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Acidic Foods and Drinks: Frequent consumption of acidic substances, like citrus fruits and soda, can erode enamel, leading to dentin exposure. [Source: What Tooth Enamel Is, Function & Care, Cleveland Clinic]
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Dental Procedures: Certain dental procedures, such as root canal retreatment, can accidentally damage dentin. [Source: Damage to root dentin during retreatment procedures, PubMed]
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Hot and Cold Foods and Drinks: While not directly causing damage, these can trigger painful sensitivity in already exposed dentin. [Source: What is Tooth Dentin and What Does it Do? Issues & Treatments, Hove Dental Clinic][Source: Dentin Hypersensitivity: What Is It, Causes, Signs | Osmosis]
Protecting Your Dentin
Practicing good oral hygiene, including gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using fluoride toothpaste, can help prevent dentin damage. Regular dental checkups are also essential for early detection and treatment of any issues. Avoiding overly acidic foods and drinks and managing bruxism are additional preventive measures.
