Do you often experience pain when you drink something cold or eat something sweet? If so, you may be one of the millions who suffer from sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity can be caused by various things, including enamel erosion, receding gums, and exposed dentin. In this blog post, we will discuss the why your teeth may be sensitive and how you can treat it!
You’re Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard
Brushing your teeth too hard or using a harsh toothbrush can wear down your enamel and even cause gum recession over time. Your teeth may be sensitive because you don’t have a sufficient layer of enamel and gums to protect your teeth’ dentin and nerves.
Over Whitening Your Teeth
Although most teeth whitening treatments are safe, even the finest in-office bleaching treatment may cause temporary or persistent tooth sensitivity. Due to the tiny pores in your enamel’s surface that open up to allow the whitening treatment to reach the dentin, you will experience a period of sensitivity following most bleaching procedures. The openings will close, but any hot or cold beverages or meals should be avoided until they have subsided.
Using at-home whitening treatments improperly may result in long-term sensitivity, so always follow the instructions and consult your dentist before using any teeth whitening method.
Cavities, Tooth Decay, Broken/Chipped Teeth
You may only feel sensitivity when eating acidic, hot, or cold foods in the early stages of a cavity. On the other hand, bacteria eat away at your enamel over time, exposing the nerves of your dentin and even traveling into the pulp, causing tooth decay and tooth sensitivity. Damaged or chipped teeth might expose your dentin or even pulp, resulting in discomfort and sensitivity.
Regularly Eating or Drinking Acidic Foods
Your enamel can be damaged by excessively consuming acidic foods like pickles, tomatoes, citrus, yogurt, and beans. Pickled vegetables, for example, are highly acidic. Eating pickled veggies in moderation and brushing your teeth after each meal might help prevent further damage to your enamel.
Recent Dental Procedures
Temporary tooth sensitivity can be caused by many factors, including dental cleanings, root canals, crown placement, tooth restoration, and other dental treatments. Dental professionals will inform you how long the discomfort should last, usually for a few days to several weeks. Contact them immediately if your dentist or dental expert cannot identify the source of persistent sensitivity.
How You Can Treat Teeth Sensitivity
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, there are a few things you can do to ease the discomfort:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently.
- Avoid acidic foods and drinks.
- Use desensitizing toothpaste.
- Visit your dentist hygienist for a professional cleaning and treatment
The Bottom Line
Your enamel is your teeth’ first line of defense, shielding them from harsh conditions such as acids and germs. While there are a variety of causes for tooth sensitivity, if it recurs, you should seek immediate dental help. Enamel erosion is irreversible. Therefore, protecting oral health and preserving teeth requires that it be taken seriously and treated by an expert.
Interested in desensitizing treatments? Contact Hale Wellness Dental Studio to see how we can help!