[Kok! Health] "Sensitive and Aching Teeth, Oral Health Warning Signal"

Advice has been given that the exact cause of sensitive teeth should be identified and proper treatment administered. Sensitive teeth refer to tooth sensitivity or aching sensations.

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Professor Kim Deok-su of the Department of Conservative Dentistry at Kyung Hee University Dental Hospital explained, "Sensitive teeth occur when the hard dental tissue protecting the nerves inside the teeth is lost due to certain factors. External stimuli naturally reach near the nerves, causing symptoms. Common causes include improper brushing habits, periodontal disease, dental caries (cavities), and tooth cracks."

Improper brushing habits, such as moving the toothbrush horizontally, cause cervical abrasion. This mainly occurs on the outer side of the teeth, where the thickness of certain areas becomes thinner, leading to hypersensitivity when exposed to cold drinks or air. In such cases, correcting brushing habits and controlling symptoms with toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth are necessary. If abrasion worsens, composite resin treatment to fill the affected area or prosthetic treatment accompanied by root canal therapy may be required.

Professor Kim stated, "If sensitive teeth are caused by gum disease or dental caries (cavities), it is most important to identify the cause through an accurate diagnosis by a professional medical team and provide appropriate treatment accordingly. If you feel aching when chewing hard or tough foods, tooth cracks should be suspected."

The causes of tooth cracks include abnormal chewing habits, excessive occlusal force, and accidental impacts. Generally, to relieve discomfort, the tooth nerve is removed and prosthetic treatment is performed to slow the progression of the crack.

Professor Kim emphasized, "Although the causes and treatments of sensitive teeth vary, they share the commonality that early detection can reduce the scope of treatment and preserve natural teeth to extend their lifespan. Regular dental visits and self-examinations to carefully observe your symptoms are the best ways to maintain dental health."

Professor Kim Deok-su, Department of Conservative Dentistry, Kyung Hee University Dental Hospital. [Photo by Kyung Hee University Dental Hospital]

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.