Tooth Sensitivity: Causes, Treatment, & Prevention
If you've ever bitten into something hot or cold and immediately felt discomfort, you know that tooth sensitivity can range from annoying to debilitating. Also known as dentin hypersensitivity, tooth sensitivity occurs when a person experiences pain in response to particular stimuli, such as temperature changes. While it can occur in one tooth, multiple teeth, or all of a person's teeth, and can be temporary or long-lasting, tooth sensitivity can usually be managed by a combination of good oral hygiene habits and assistance from your dentist. If you're suffering from sensitivity in one or more of your teeth, here's what you should know about finding relief.
Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
In most cases, tooth sensitivity occurs in response to something specific. Common triggers for tooth sensitivity include:
Cold foods
Hot foods
Acidic foods
Sugary foods
Cold air
Alcohol-based oral rinses
Brushing teeth
It is not uncommon for symptoms of tooth sensitivity to vary. While it may be mild and sporadic on some occasions, it could be severe and long-lasting at other times.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity most commonly occurs when your gums pull away from the tooth and the dentin layer (the soft layer under the hard surface of your enamel) is exposed. Dentin is not protected by enamel below the gumline of your teeth, so once your gums are worn away, tubules that lead to your tooth's root become exposed causing discomfort when exposed to certain triggers.
Dentin exposure can result from several causes, including:
Brushing too hard or with a toothbrush with stiff bristles
Periodontal disease that leads to gum recession
Teeth grinding
Tooth trauma/injury
Dental procedures, such as fillings, crowns, or bleaching
Tooth decay
Consuming too many acidic foods and drinks
How Can Tooth Sensitivity Be Treated?
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity for the first time in your life, don't panic. In most circumstances, tooth sensitivity can often be treated quickly and easily, meaning you won't have to avoid ice cream or your morning coffee indefinitely. The best way to resolve your tooth sensitivity pain is to identify the source of the problem. Scheduling a check-up with your dentist can help determine why your teeth are sensitive, such as a cavity, gum disease, or erosion.
There are many ways to resolve tooth sensitivity, including:
Addressing common dental problems that can sometimes cause discomfort, such as filling a cavity
Using desensitizing fluoride toothpaste and alcohol-free mouthwash during your daily oral hygiene routine
Use a softer toothbrush and be careful not to brush too vigorously
For patients with significant gum recession, your dentist may recommend a gum graft to protect your tooth's exposed root
Root canals can also aid in severe tooth sensitivity by removing the infection from your tooth's soft core
Sleeping with a mouthguard to prevent clenching and grinding at night
How Can I Prevent Tooth Sensitivity in the Future?
While tooth sensitivity may not always be avoidable, in many cases it is. Taking the time to practice good oral hygiene habits can have a tremendous impact on the health of your teeth and gums, and help you prevent tooth sensitivity in the future. Some practical tips to combat tooth sensitivity include:
Brushing and flossing twice a day to prevent gum disease and recession
Use a soft-bristled electric toothbrush and avoid brushing too hard
Limit your consumption of acidic and sugary foods
Use a fluoride toothpaste that protects the enamel and prevents sensitivity
Visit the dentist twice a year for routine exams and professional cleanings
If your smile is healthy and strong, you're less likely to develop dental concerns that can contribute to tooth sensitivity. With this in mind, it's important to practice good oral health habits regularly to maintain a beautiful, pain-free smile.
We Can Help Relieve Your Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity doesn't have to be a life-long struggle. Chances are that treating the underlying cause can bring you quick relief and better oral health. If you are living with occasional or constant discomfort from tooth sensitivity, the experienced dental team at Charlotte Dental Esthetics can help. Visit us online or give us a call at (704) 327-3258 to schedule an exam to get to the root of what's causing your discomfort and treat it as quickly as possible.