Final Answer:
Sensitive teeth have a greater diameter of nonsensitive tubules.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sensitivity of teeth is often associated with the exposure of dentinal tubules, which are microscopic channels that connect the outer enamel layer to the inner pulp of the tooth. The diameter of these tubules plays a crucial role in tooth sensitivity.
Sensitive teeth typically have a greater diameter of nonsensitive tubules, allowing external stimuli, such as hot or cold temperatures, to reach the nerve endings within the tooth more easily. This increased accessibility to the nerve endings contributes to the heightened sensitivity experienced by individuals with sensitive teeth.
To elaborate further, the diameter of dentinal tubules varies among individuals, and factors such as enamel thickness and wear can influence their size. In cases of tooth sensitivity, conditions like enamel erosion or gum recession may expose and widen these tubules, facilitating the transmission of stimuli to the nerve endings. The greater diameter of nonsensitive tubules in sensitive teeth enhances the responsiveness of the tooth's nerve endings to external stimuli, resulting in the characteristic discomfort associated with tooth sensitivity.
In summary, the relationship between tooth sensitivity and the diameter of dentinal tubules is integral to understanding the mechanisms underlying this dental condition. Sensitive teeth exhibit an enlargement of nonsensitive tubules, accentuating the susceptibility of the tooth's nerve endings to external stimuli and contributing to the discomfort experienced by individuals with sensitive teeth.