Sensitive Teeth

Your teeth shouldn’t just look great; they should feel great, too! That’s our belief at the South Carthay office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri. Many people who suffer from sharp toothaches when they bite into something cold believe that this is normal. In fact, it could be a sign of a problem with their enamel. To understand why, it is necessary to know the tooth’s internal anatomy.

Dental pulp contains a highly sensitive nerve. It is surrounded by dentin, which is a porous substance that easily conducts heat. Enamel, a hard substance comprised of calcium and phosphate ions, makes up the crown of the tooth and insulates the underlying dentin. Cementum, a sticky substance, makes up the outer layer of the tooth root and is much thinner.

Dentin is yellow-brown in color and can be seen through enamel when enamel is thin. Although people with bruxism may grind down their enamel, loss of it is usually due to acid. Drinks such as soda and citrus juice contain high amounts of acid and people with acid reflux often have sensitivity on their upper back teeth. But most enamel loss, as well as most gum recession around sensitive tooth roots, is due to oral bacteria. Patients will need to brush more thoroughly (not necessarily harder) to rid themselves of acid and decay-causing bacteria, but we can help them by providing deep cleanings and examining them for signs of decay.

Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles, California, 90035. To set up an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit Suzanne Haeri DDS and fill out a request.