Studies have established that there is a relationship between
prolonged and inappropriate use of teeth
whitening gel or toothpaste with tooth sensitivity. To understand how teeth
whitening products can lead to sensitization in the teeth over time, you need
to understand the anatomy of tooth. Therefore, here we first discuss the
structure of tooth followed by how teeth whitening can cause harm if the
instructions given on the self-use kits are not followed diligently.
Anatomy of
a Tooth
Tooth essentially is made from three layers, enamel, dentin, and
pulp; each layer has its role in well being of a tooth and damage to any of the
layer can manifest into dental problems of various types.
The first layer, enamel, is the hardest biological tissue—made of
calcium phosphate—that gives teeth its color. The second layer underneath
enamel is dentin, which is made of living cells and tubules that restores the
hard mineral substance of enamel. The innermost layer is pulp, which contains
blood vessels for nourishment and nerves for sending messages to brain. Another
part of tooth that is central to tooth sensitivity and cure for sensitive teeth is cementum, a connective tissue that attaches
the tooth to gums.
Teeth whitening products contain abrasives that are found to erode
the enamel, the protective covering of the teeth, and as a result cause
sensitivity over time. The unprotected use of teeth whitening gel recedes also cementum and exposes the dentin
and nerves lying below it. The primary cure
for sensitive teeth thus is to discontinue use of teeth whitening products
and acquire habits that do not harm enamel and dentine, such as brushing teeth
correctly, soft-bristle toothbrush, and toothpaste with potassium nitrate.
