What is dentin hypersensitivity? Dentin hypersensitivity, more commonly referred to as sensitive teeth, can be defined as short, sharp pains that come from exposed dentin (the layer of tissue found beneath the hard enamel that contains the inner pulp). Individuals with sensitive teeth may find that the pain can be triggered by hot, cold, sour, or sweet beverages or foods, forceful brushing or flossing, or even by cold air. What causes the sensitivity? Tooth sensitivity is caused by the movement of fluid within tiny tubes (pores) located in the dentin, which results in nerve irritation. When the hard enamel of....

12 AGD Impact | www.agd.org | November 2010 It's important for children to visit the dentist early to ensure they are off to a good start with their oral health. The first dental visit is an extremely important step in a child's life long oral health. When should my child first see a dentist, and why? The ideal time for a child to visit the dentist is six months after the child's first(primary) teeth erupt and no later than his or her first birthday. This time frame is a perfect opportunity for the dentist to examine carefully the development of....

June is National Men's Health Month. Across the country, preventative screenings, health fairs, media spotlights, and other health education and outreach activities will raise the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys. Why is oral health important for me? Men are less likely than women to take care of their physical health and, according to research, their oral health is equally ignored. Good oral health has been linked to longevity, yet one of the most common factors associated with infrequent dental checkups is just being male. Men are less likely....