Sensitive teeth can be a real pain. If you’ve ever winced while sipping hot coffee or felt a sharp pain when biting into ice cream, you know the discomfort that tooth sensitivity can bring. Understanding why your teeth might be sensitive is the first step toward finding relief. But, with so many causes, you might not be sure where your problems begin.
At Mountain View Dental, we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with tooth sensitivity. This discomfort can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks or enjoy your favorite foods and drinks. If you have sensitive teeth and you want to learn more about the causes and how to alleviate this pain, keep reading.
Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
If you are dealing with sensitive teeth, it can be frustrating and incredibly uncomfortable. However, understanding the causes can help you address this problem. Some of the most common causes of sensitive teeth include:
Enamel Erosion
Your enamel is the protective outer layer of your teeth. When it wears down, the underlying dentin is exposed. These tiny tubules lead to the nerve center of your tooth, and when they are exposed to the air, they can cause pain or sensitive teeth. Enamel erosion may be the result of acidic food and drink consumption, aggressive brushing, or acid reflux.
Gum Recession
As your gums recede, the root of your tooth becomes exposed. Unlike the rest of your teeth, there isn’t enamel on your roots. When they recede, the exposure your roots experience can lead to increased sensitivity. Gum recession can be caused by periodontal disease, aggressive brushing, or aging, making it important that you care for your teeth properly throughout your life.
Tooth Decay and Damage
When you develop cavities or deal with cracked or chipped teeth, the dentin within your teeth may become exposed. Like with enamel erosion, this exposure can lead to pain deep within the tooth. Cavities are often caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that produces acids, which erode tooth enamel and create holes in the teeth.
Teeth Grinding
If you often find yourself grinding or clenching your teeth, you can wear down your enamel. This grinding, also known as bruxism, may occur unconsciously during sleep and can be managed with a night guard. However, if you don’t have a nightguard or address this problem with the help of a dental team, you may notice that your teeth become more sensitive as your grinding habit continues.
Recent Dental Procedures
Some dental procedures, like professional teeth whitening, fillings, crowns, and other dental treatments, can temporarily lead to sensitive teeth. While this sensitivity can be frustrating to deal with and make everyday activities more uncomfortable, it usually subsides after a few days. However, if it does not subside on its own, it might be best to contact your dentist for support.
Plaque Buildup
A buildup of plaque on the surface of your teeth can lead to a variety of dental problems, like receding gums. When your gums recede, they expose the more sensitive parts of your teeth. By practicing good oral hygiene, you should be able to promptly and sufficiently address any plaque buildup you may be dealing with, avoiding sensitive teeth.
How to Alleviate Sensitive Teeth
If you are dealing with sensitive teeth, you may feel as though there is no adequate solution to address this problem. However, there are a few steps you can take to help alleviate sensitivity, allowing you to return to everyday activities. Some ways to alleviate this sensitivity include:
Desensitizing Toothpaste
If you are dealing with sensitive teeth, specially formulated toothpaste can help you block the pain you’re experiencing. Look for toothpaste that contains potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride. In about two weeks, you should begin to experience significant improvement in your sensitivity.
Gentle Brushing Techniques
When brushing your teeth in the morning and at night, it is important that you use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing motions. Avoid brushing too hard, as this can wear down your enamel and lead to gum recession that you cannot remedy.
Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks
Reducing your intake of acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits, soda, and wine, can help protect your enamel from erosion. If you consume these foods, rinse your mouth with water to help neutralize the acids.
Wear a Mouthguard
If you are dealing with sensitive teeth as a result of teeth grinding, it is likely best to wear a custom-fitted mouthguard to alleviate these symptoms. Your mouthguard can help protect your teeth from any further wear and tear.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
If you want to avoid sensitive teeth, brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. Good oral hygiene can prevent plaque buildup and gum disease, reducing the risk of sensitivity.
Contact Your Dentist
If your sensitivity persists or is severe, it’s important to see your dentist. They can identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments, such as fluoride treatments, dental bonding, or even a root canal if they deem it necessary.
Addressing Your Sensitive Teeth with Mountain View Dental
If you are dealing with sensitive teeth and you are looking for a dental team to help you address this discomfort, turn to our team at Mountain View Dental. With years of experience helping patients recover from this pain, we are confident that we can do the same for you. Whether you need a dental cleaning, fluoride treatment, or root canal, our team provides a variety of services to meet every patient’s unique needs. If you would like to schedule an appointment with our team to address your sensitivity, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
