Have you ever experienced discomfort in your teeth when consuming hot or cold food or drinks? If yes, you might be suffering from tooth sensitivity, a common dental issue affecting many patients, which in turn can cause you to experience oral pain. There are several reasons why tooth sensitivity may affect you, ranging from tooth decay, gum recession, and enamel erosion to teeth grinding and aggressive brushing.
Tooth sensitivity is that sharp, sudden discomfort that you feel in your teeth. This happens when the dentin, which is the porous tissue that makes up the bulk of your teeth, becomes exposed. The dentin is home to tiny channels called tubules that lead to the nerve of the tooth. When these tubules are exposed due to receding gum tissue or enamel erosion, it can cause nerves in the tooth to be more sensitive to certain stimuli like hot or cold drinks, sweets, or acidic foods. The result? Tooth sensitivity! It’s a common condition and can be a major cause of toothaches.
Whether you have been dealing with tooth sensitivity for a while or just experiencing it for the first time, at our dental clinic in McKenzie Towne, we strive to provide valuable insights on preventing this dental issue.
What Are the Main Causes of Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Enamel erosion: The enamel is the most outer layer of the tooth, and if it becomes eroded or worn away, it exposes the underlying layer of dentin, which is much more sensitive to temperature and pressure changes.
- Gum Disease: This happens when tartar or plaque build-up on the gum line, leading to the destruction of the bone support around the tooth, causing your teeth to become more sensitive.
- Gum recession: When the gums recede, the roots of the teeth are left exposed, which can increase oral sensitivity also.
- Tooth decay: Cavities and other forms of tooth decay can expose the sensitive inner part of the tooth.
- Teeth grinding: Sensitivity can result from grinding or clenching your teeth as it can wear away the enamel and expose the dentin.
- Aggressive brushing: Brushing your teeth too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away the enamel and cause sensitivity.
- Dental procedures: Certain dental procedures, such as teeth whitening, dental fillings, and crown placements, can cause temporary sensitivity.
- Acidic foods and drinks: Consuming highly acidic foods and drinks can erode the enamel and cause sensitivity.
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD): When stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus and mouth, it can contribute to the erosion of the tooth enamel and sensitivity.
How to Deal with Tooth Sensitivity?
If you’re dealing with tooth sensitivity, there are several things you can do to manage and alleviate oral pain and discomfort. Here are some tips our dentists in McKenzie Towne recommend for you:
Use a desensitizing toothpaste
There are several types of toothpaste available that can help reduce tooth sensitivity. These kinds of toothpaste contain special ingredients that block the pain signals from reaching the nerves in your teeth. Contact a dentist near you today to learn more about the right toothpaste.
Change your brushing habits
Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too aggressively can contribute to enamel erosion and gum recession, leading to sensitivity. Switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush and using a gentle circular brushing technique can help reduce sensitivity.
Avoid acidic foods and drinks
Consuming highly acidic foods and drinks can erode the enamel and cause sensitivity. Try to limit your intake of acidic foods and drinks and rinse your mouth with water thirty minutes after every meal.
Wear a mouthguard
If you grind your teeth constantly, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth from further damage and reduce sensitivity.
Use fluoride treatments
Fluoride treatments can help strengthen the enamel and reduce sensitivity. Our dentist in McKenzie Towne can apply a fluoride treatment to your teeth to provide extra protection during regular dental cleaning appointments.
Consider dental procedures
Some dental procedures, such as dental bonding, gum grafting, or a root canal, can help alleviate sensitivity. If you are interested in getting dental treatment near you, ask for all the possible positive effects.
Are you looking for a solution to your tooth sensitivity? Schedule a consultation with our dedicated team at our dental clinic in McKenzie Towne. We offer a wide range of dental services, from preventive care to restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Don’t let dental issues affect your quality of life, book your consultation with us here at South Trail Crossing Dental today!