For nearly everyone, visible tooth enamel is a cause for concern. Typically, dentin sits securely beneath the tooth's enamel layer, shielded from the outside world. However, if the enamel wears down, dentin can become exposed, leading to sensitivity to temperature changes, sweets and acidic foods. This is because dentin isn't designed to interact directly with external stimuli.  

So what is dentin,  and why does it need special protection? In this article, we will explore the answers to these questions and explain how to protect your dentin.

A Quick Peek Inside Our Teeth

Our enamel does a fantastic job protecting us from sensitivity. Right under the enamel is dentin, which is a bit softer and filled with tiny pathways that lead straight to our tooth's nerve center. If dentin gets exposed, we might feel a tingle when we sip something hot or cold.

There are four distinct types of adult teeth: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. While the crown and root of each tooth serve diverse purposes, they all have the same basic structure.

The tooth's crown, the portion you can see above the gums, is attached to the jaw by the root, which also connects the crown to the periodontal ligament.  

There are four layers that shield the root and crown:

• Enamel: The body's toughest component that protects your teeth from germs.
• Dentin: Under the enamel, there is a softer, yellowish layer that protects the cementum and the pulp of the tooth.
• Cementum: A cement-like substance that coats the tooth's root and aids in securing the tooth to the jaw.
• Tooth Pulp: The innermost layer of a tooth. It contains the tissue, nerves, and blood vessels.

When enamel wears away and bacteria penetrate dentin, your teeth are far more vulnerable to decay and painfully exposed nerves. Dentin is inherently yellow rather than white, so when enamel discolours, your teeth will also start to become discoloured, appearing off-white or yellowish.

A few things might wear down our enamel and expose dentin:

• Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Sometimes, stress or a not-so-perfect bite can make us grind our teeth, wearing down that protective enamel.
• Gum Recession: Plaque can make our gums shy away, pulling back and potentially exposing dentin.
• Energetic Brushing: Brushing too hard, or using a stiff brush, might also wear down our enamel, especially near the gums.
• Acid Reflux (GERD): Stomach acids making an unwelcome visit to our mouths can also lead to enamel erosion.

What if I already have exposed dentin?

Don’t worry! There are ways to help ease sensitivity:

• Desensitizing Toothpaste: These can help make teeth less sensitive over time.
• Fluoride Treatments: A little extra fluoride can go a long way in strengthening enamel and reducing sensitivity.
• Dental Restorations: Sometimes, bonding or a dental crown can help fix any decay or damage causing sensitivity.
• Gum Grafts: For serious gum recession, a small surgical fix can cover exposed roots and lessen sensitivity.
• Root Canal Therapy: In more severe cases, this treatment might be the way to go.

Our goal at Dental Image Therapy Centres goes beyond fixing problems—we want to educate you with the know-how to keep your mouth healthy. Remember, the best way to keep sensitivity at bay is by teaming up with your dental care professionals and staying proactive about your oral health.

For more information or to discuss your dental health options, feel free to reach out to us at either of our Winnipeg locations in Garden City and St. Vital. We're here to guide you towards a healthier, more confident smile.

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