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Expert: - 12/15/2009


Question
Hi, I'm not sure if you will answer questions about sensitive teeth, but I have quite sensitive teeth that all of a sudden don't seem to respond to any toothpaste for this problem. Sensitive teeth toothpastes have always worked for me in the past, but now they just don't seem to work. Not even the most expensive ones. They help a little, but they don't remove the sensitivity completely like they used to. What could possibly be wrong? I have already booked an appointment with my dentist, but I would just like to have some answers beforehand. Thanks for your advice!

Answer
Dear Liz:
It is very difficult to determine the cause as to why you have gotten sensitive over the years.  However, one factor is very important and should not be overlooked.  It is very common for people to get recession of the gums.  This exposure of the tooth structure over the years can precipitate great sensitivity, since the protective enamel is not present on the exposed root surface, and sometimes, even the acidity of the common bacterial plaque can cause great pain.  It is extremely important to professionally remove the plaque and follow with a very careful home care regimen.
I found the following website extremely helpful:
http://www.colgate.com/app/Colgate/US/OC/Information/OralHealthBasics/GoodOralHy...
If recession is the cause, you might want to speak to a Periodontist who can provide you with a surgical solution.  Root coverage procedures are very helpful.
There are also several paste products that your dentist can you on your teeth to reduce sensitivity.  Ask your dentist about that as well.
I hope that this helps you, as I said, it is very difficult for me to give you anymore information, since I am at a disadvantage without a proper examination and health history.
Best of luck,
Dr. Zev Kaufman

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Zev Kaufman, D.D.S.

Expertise

I can answer any question from simple routine dentistry to very complex dentistry with emphasis on reconstructive, cosmetic, and implant dentistry. My expertise is in co-ordination of very complex treatment plans with other dental specialists or as a one-man-team, since I have extensive training in Prosthodontics, Surgical Implantology, and orthodontics.

Experience

Over a decade in private practice of Surgical Implantology and Prosthodontics. Founder and owner of Prosthodontics & Implant Surgery of Manhattan, PC. Clinical Assistant Professor at the Post-Graduate Department of Periodontics & Implant Dentistry at New York University College of Dentistry. Lecture weekly since 1999 on advanced Implant Prosthodontics at New York University College of Dentistry Post-Graduate Program in Periodontics & Implant Dentistry. Former clinical assistant professor of Dental Radiology at the NYU College of Dentistry. Former clinical and lecture faculty at Lincoln Hospital, Dental residency program. Former clinical and lecture faculty at St. Barnabas Hospital (Bronx, NY) dental residency program. Lecture nationally on Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry.

Organizations
Memeber of the American College of Prosthodontics. Memeber of the Acacdemy of Osseointegration. Member or the Omikron Kappa Upsilon (OKU) Honors Dental Society. Member of the American Dental Education Association.

Education/Credentials
Graduated with Honors from New York University College of Dentistry. Post-Graduate training and certificate in the specialty of Prosthodontics. Post-Graduate training and ceritificate in Surgical and Prosthetic Implant Dentistry. Honors-program in Comprehensive and Applied Practice Management. Honors-program in Orthodontics.

Awards and Honors
NYU Cervice award to the community. OKU honor society. National Dean's List. National Who's Who.

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