Why Are My Teeth So Sensitive?
Are you often wincing when the taste of ice cream hits your teeth? Do you dread the thought of a cold breeze against your smile? You may be one of many individuals dealing with sensitive teeth. Sensitive teeth can significantly impact your quality of life, making even the simplest activities like eating, drinking, and brushing uncomfortable. So, what causes sensitive teeth? And what treatment options are available? Learn how you can protect your teeth from developing sensitivity.
What Are Sensitive Teeth?
Sensitive teeth, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, is a common dental condition characterised by discomfort or sharp sudden pain in response to certain stimuli, such as cold air, hot or cold food and beverages, sweet foods, or even aggressive tooth brushing. This pain can be temporary, often sharp and sudden, but for many people, it may be persistent and cause considerable distress.
The root of this problem lies in the structure of the tooth. Each tooth is protected by a hard layer of enamel. Underneath the gum line, a layer called cementum protects the tooth root. Underneath both the enamel and the cementum is dentin, a less dense, porous substance that contains microscopic tubules. When the protective layers of enamel or cementum wear down, the dentin becomes exposed, allowing hot, cold, acidic, or sticky substances to reach the nerves inside the tooth, resulting in pain or sensitivity.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
Understanding what causes sensitive teeth is crucial in finding the right solution. There are many potential causes for this dental condition:
Enamel Erosion
Consuming highly acidic foods or beverages, like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and sodas, can wear down tooth enamel, leading to Dentin Hypersensitivity.
Receding Gums
Age, poor dental hygiene, or aggressive brushing can lead to gum recession, which exposes the tooth roots, causing sensitivity.
Tooth Grinding
Often an unconscious habit, especially during sleep, tooth grinding can wear down the tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity.
Tooth Decay or Broken Teeth
Decay, cavities, chipped or cracked teeth can expose the dentin, causing tooth sensitivity.
Post Dental Treatment Sensitivity
Procedures such as teeth whitening, fillings, and crowns may result in temporary sensitivity.
It’s crucial to remember that while some of these causes can be managed with good dental practices at home, others may require professional treatment. If you’re experiencing sensitive teeth, Granite Belt Dental offers check ups for sensitive teeth or toothaches to the Warwick and Stanthorpe region.
The Impact Of Sensitive Teeth
The discomfort of sensitive teeth can impact various aspects of your life. For one, it can affect your dietary choices, as you may find yourself avoiding certain foods and drinks that trigger your sensitivity, such as cold ice cream or hot coffee. It might also impact your oral hygiene routine, as brushing or flossing might become painful tasks, and you could end up neglecting them. Furthermore, the discomfort can create a distraction, causing you to lose focus on your daily activities.
While sensitive teeth might seem like a minor issue at first glance, it’s not something to be ignored. The same factors that cause tooth sensitivity, like enamel erosion or tooth decay, can lead to more severe dental issues if not addressed promptly. This is why it’s crucial to consult with a dental professional if you’re experiencing sensitive teeth.
Sensitive Teeth Treatment
When it comes to sensitive teeth treatment, the right approach will largely depend on the underlying cause. The treatment could be as simple as altering your oral hygiene routine at home or may require a professional procedure performed by your dentist.
At-Home Remedies For Sensitive Teeth
Desensitising Toothpaste
These special toothpastes contain compounds that help block transmission of sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve, and can often be an effective first step towards managing tooth sensitivity.
Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Using a toothbrush with soft bristles, combined with gentle brushing technique, can help prevent further enamel erosion and gum recession.
Fluoride Mouthwash
A daily rinse with a fluoride mouthwash can help strengthen tooth enamel and may provide additional relief from the pain of tooth sensitivity.
Avoid Acidic Foods and Beverages
Limiting the intake of acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, wine, and soda, can help prevent further enamel erosion.
Dental Treatments For Sensitive Teeth
Fluoride Application
Your dentist might apply fluoride to the sensitive areas of your teeth to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce pain.
Dental Procedures
If your tooth sensitivity is due to tooth decay or a fractured tooth, then fillings, crowns, inlays, or bonding might be needed to fix the issue.
Surgical Gum Graft
If your tooth root has lost gum coverage, a small amount of gum tissue can be taken from elsewhere in your mouth and attached to the affected site. This can protect exposed roots and reduce sensitivity.
Root Canal
If other treatments are not effective, and the sensitive teeth are severely impacting your life, your dentist may recommend a root canal, a procedure used to treat problems in the tooth’s soft core, or dental pulp.
Always remember that each person’s case is unique, and your dentist will advise you on the best treatment options based on your specific circumstances. If you’re dealing with sensitive teeth, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Granite Belt Dental. Our professional team is here to help you navigate your dental health journey with ease and confidence.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Taking steps to prevent tooth sensitivity is an important part of maintaining good oral health. Here are a few tips:
- Practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Don’t forget to floss daily!
- Limit acidic foods and drinks which can erode your tooth enamel over time. If you do consume them, try to brush your teeth afterward or rinse your mouth with water.
- Use a mouth guard if you grind your teeth at night, a condition known as bruxism.
- Regularly visit your dentist for check-ups. They can provide a professional cleaning and identify any potential issues before they become serious problems.
Tooth sensitivity can have a significant impact on your life, but remember, it can be managed and treated. Understanding the causes can help you make changes to prevent it, and there are plenty of effective treatments available for those who already experience sensitivity. Above all, consistent, good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are key to keeping your teeth healthy and sensitivity-free.
If you’re experiencing sensitive teeth, it’s important to get it checked out by a professional. At Granite Belt Dental, our experienced team can provide you with a comprehensive check-up and guide you through the best treatment options for your unique needs. We’re committed to helping you maintain your oral health in a comfortable and relaxed environment. Contact us today to schedule your appointment, and take the first step towards a pain-free smile!
