Have you ever flinched from a sudden jolt of pain when enjoying your favorite hot or cold beverage? Tooth sensitivity is a common but often misunderstood dental issue, leaving many to wonder about its causes and remedies. In this blog, we delve into the various factors that contribute to tooth sensitivity, offering insights into both its prevention and treatment. Whether it’s the foods you eat or your oral care routine, understanding the roots of sensitivity is the first step toward finding relief and maintaining a healthy, pain-free smile.
Possible Causes of Teeth Sensitivity
Food and drinks
If you are regularly eating lots of acidic foods and snacking frequently, this can cause the enamel on your teeth to erode which can be the cause of your sensitivity. Foods and drinks such as soft drinks, lemon water, energy drinks, juice and some fruits such as mandarins and oranges are all very high in acidity.
You don’t need to cut out all of these completely as we all crave these foods sometimes, however here are a few ways to help prevent acid erosion and sensitivity.
- Rinsing– rinse your mouth with water straight after having something acidic. Rinsing will help neutralise the acid in your mouth and reducing acid wear on your teeth.
- Swap to less acidic foods such as milk, water, cheese and bananas.
- Eat/drink in moderation. Try to only have these foods every now and then to reduce the acidic wear on your teeth.
- Use a toothpaste that’s for sensitive teeth and brush gently using a soft toothbrush.
- After eating/drinking acidic foods, wait for 30 minutes before you brush. Acid softens the enamel, so if you brush immediately you may be ‘brushing away your enamel’.
Periodontal disease
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a gum infection that can not only affect your gums, but the bone supporting your teeth as well. If periodontal disease is left untreated, your bone and gums recede causing your tooth root to become exposed. The tooth root doesn’t have enamel to protect the underlying layers, so sensitivity can occur. There are many causes for gum disease with factors including smoking, diabetes, poor oral hygiene and some medical conditions.
If think you have gum disease or are experiencing symptoms, come in and see one our friendly dentists for a checkup, diagnosis and treatment options.
Brushing
Have you ever been overwhelmed with all the different types of toothbrushes at the store? We recommend a soft bristled toothbrush as it is possible to wear away your enamel and recede your gums just from brushing too hard! If you were to brush your teeth in a “scrubbing” motion with a hard bristled toothbrush you can “brush away your gums”, exposing your root surface which is highly sensitive as it is not protected by enamel. We recommend brushing in gentle circles around your teeth and gums which will also help to reduce any plaque build-up.
Whitening
Although whitening your teeth makes you feel great and gives you a whiter smile, it is important to make sure you follow the correct aftercare procedures. If you don’t or are more susceptible, you may feel more sensitivity. Make sure you consult with a dentist before trying any at-home whitening yourself, as unfortunately if you already have sensitive teeth, you may not be a good candidate for whitening.
Bruxism
You may not even realise it, but your tooth sensitivity could be due to bruxism, also known as grinding or clenching your teeth. You may find yourself doing it during the day, or you may find you are waking up with sore teeth or headaches. This means you may be subconsciously grinding or clenching in your sleep. Some of the common reason for bruxism are anxiety, stress, tension, aggressive or competitive personality, caffeine and some medications. As there are so many possibilities as to why you could be grinding or clenching it is best to visit your dentist so they can help treat the issue. If you cannot stop your clenching habit, you can get a splint made here at Dental Aspects, which may help to prevent further damage to your teeth.
Broken, chipped, decayed teeth
One of the more unfortunate reasons for tooth sensitivity could be a broken, chipped or decayed tooth. If you are experiencing sensitivity to hot or cold, or are feeling sharp shooting pains, it is best to come in a see a dentist straight away. Regular dental visits are also receommended to help keep your teeth in their best condition.
Discover Comprehensive Dental Care at Dental Aspects
Tooth sensitivity is just one of the many oral health issues we address at Dental Aspects. We offer a wide range of dental services to cater to all your needs. Explore our diverse offerings:
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General Dentistry: Our general dentistry services cover routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and much more to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
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Cosmetic Dentistry: Enhance your smile with our cosmetic dentistry treatments, including teeth whitening, veneers, and other smile makeover options.
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Emergency Dentistry: For unexpected dental emergencies, our team is ready to provide prompt and effective treatment.
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Root Canal Treatment: Our root canal treatments are performed with the utmost precision and care, focused on saving your natural teeth and relieving pain.
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Dentures: We offer custom-made dentures to replace missing teeth, ensuring comfort and a natural appearance.
At Dental Aspects, we’re dedicated to enhancing and maintaining your oral health. Schedule your appointment with us today.
Keep Reading: Don’t Delay Dental Care: Risks Of Ignoring Cracked Or Chipped Teeth
