What Makes Teeth Sensitive?

Have you ever noticed a tingling sensation when drinking or eating something cold or hot? This sensation is called tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is temporary tooth pain that is triggered by hot or cold substances. If left untreated, tooth sensitivity can lead to pain that lasts for a longer time. Tooth sensitivity is common in people aged between 30 and 40, but it can affect people of all ages. Tooth sensitivity is usually caused by one of the following factors.

What Causes Teeth Sensitivity?

One of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity is poor oral hygiene habits, such as not brushing and flossing regularly or failing to use fluoride toothpaste. When plaque is allowed to build up on teeth, acids produced by the bacteria in the plaque can erode the enamel of your teeth and lead to sensitivity. In addition to causing pain, poor oral hygiene can lead to more serious oral health issues, like gum disease.

Drinking acidic beverages can also contribute to tooth sensitivity. If you have sensitive teeth, try drinking low-acidic beverages, like water, and eating less acidic foods, like dairy products. You can also talk to your doctor about using fluoridated mouthwash to help strengthen and protect your teeth against sensitivity and tooth decay.

Wear on your teeth can also lead to sensitivity. The hard outer layer of your tooth, the enamel, protects the sensitive dentin underneath. If that layer gets worn away, then gum recession and tooth root exposure can occur, which can leave the inner layers of the tooth exposed and vulnerable to the foods and beverages you eat and drink. This can lead to discomfort and pain whenever you consume something hot or cold, or acidic. Wearing a bite guard can help protect teeth from the effects of grinding and clenching. Even more so, if the bite guard is custom-made to perfectly fit your bite.

If tooth sensitivity persists despite optimizing your oral hygiene regimen and avoiding acidic drinks and foods, talk to your dentist about the possibility of an underlying condition causing the discomfort.

Your dentist will examine your mouth and may order an X-ray to rule out any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your tooth sensitivity. Treatment for tooth sensitivity depends on the cause but may include over-the-counter pain medications, professional cleanings, and desensitizing treatments. To learn more, contact a dentist in your area today.

If you are interested in learning more about the causes of tooth sensitivity, please contact us today for more information about how to properly care for your teeth or to schedule an appointment with a member of our dental team. We would be happy to answer your questions and help you maintain excellent oral health!