If you eat hot soup does it hurt your teeth? Do cold drinks or desserts cause you to wince? This may be the cause of tooth sensitivity. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, about 45 million Americans experience tooth sensitivity, which is characterized by a tingly feeling or a flash pinch of pain affecting all your teeth or certain areas of your teeth. Pain that is associated with tooth sensitivity may occur constantly or intermittently. Occasional tooth sensitivity can occur while ingesting hot or cold food or beverages or when cold air hits your teeth. In some instances, though, tooth sensitivity pain can signify a more serious problem, such as damage.
Causes of Sensitivity
Aging accounts for some tooth sensitivity because, as we age, enamel naturally wears down, exposing the dentin and causing sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity can also result from a variety of other factors including:
* Gum recession
* Acidy liquids, such as soda
* Tooth grinding
* Brushing your teeth too hard
* Dental treatments such as teeth whitening
* Root nerve damage, gum disease or a chipped or fractured tooth
When the root of a tooth becomes exposed it does not have a layer of enamel like the crowns of your teeth. Instead the roots have a very soft covering called cementum, which once lost leaves the dentin of the root exposed. Overzealous brushing or using very abrasive toothpaste can also cause abrasion of the tooth’s enamel surface, exposing the dentin. A very acidic diet can also lead to tooth erosion and dissolve the tooth surface. Bulimia can result in dental erosion and sensitivity to acid in the mouth as well.
Ease and Prevent Tooth Sensitivity
Depending on the cause of the tooth sensitivity, treatment can be administered accordingly. Tooth sensitivity can be reduced by using desensitizing toothpastes. First, tell your dentist and they can help you see what the best treatment is. It is also important to tell your dentist if you have sensitivity because it could be a cause other than dentin and can be a more serious problem. Again, whether you ultimately choose an in-office desensitizer or over-the-counter toothpastes, rinses or gels, the most important step is to see a dentist first to determine which tooth sensitivity solution is right for you.
In order to reduce your chances of developing sensitivity to your teeth, it is commonly advised that you maintain a proper level of oral hygiene. Most dentists may recommend that you brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes in addition to flossing and using mouthwash. It also helps to ease acidic foods and sugary snacks and drinks. Ignoring any sensitivity issues can lead to many more oral health issues.
If you notice any change in your teeth’s sensitivity to temperature, consult your dentist as soon as possible. Sometimes a sensitive tooth can be confused for a cavity or abscess that is not yet visible, making it important to visit your dentist at the first onset of sensitivity.
Sean Hartmen is the author for Dr. Rani Seeth of Bolingbrook Dental Care, an experienced Bolingbrook school checkups dentist. Providing the most quality care, Dr. Seeth offers implant restoration, veneers, bonding, crowns, teeth whitening and school dental checkups in Bolingbrook for patients of every age.