The Most Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity can cause significant amounts of pain and discomfort. Implementing the appropriate treatments for tooth sensitivity can go a long way toward minimizing the pain you are experiencing and eliminating the underlying issue causing the pain. Understanding how to detect and treat tooth sensitivity can help to ensure a healthy, beautiful smile without all of the related pain. There are many various causes and treatments for sensitivity of the teeth. Here are just a few of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity.

What is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is also known as dentin hypersensitivity. It refers to pain or discomfort that occurs as a response to the teeth being exposed to specific stimuli. There are multiple kinds of tooth sensitivity, depending primarily on the underlying cause of the sensitivity. It can impact several teeth, a single tooth, or a full set of teeth. It may also be temporary, especially following dental work. If tooth sensitivity lasts for much longer, it is likely that there is an underlying issue that will require a visit to the dentist in order to resolve. No matter what type of tooth sensitivity you are experiencing, it can cause a significant amount of discomfort and even pain. Having the issue resolved will go a long way toward keeping your teeth healthy and alleviating any pain that you may be experiencing.

How to Tell that you have Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity can primarily be detected when you experience discomfort or pain based on specific stimuli. Some of the most common stimuli that cause this negative reaction are temperature related. Consuming hot or cold foods and drinks can result in this pain or discomfort. Cold air may also cause the symptoms of tooth sensitivity. If you experience pain or discomfort in your teeth after eating sugary, sweet foods or drinking sugary beverages, it is likely that you are experiencing tooth sensitivity. Particularly acidic foods and drinks that cause pain are also likely an indication of tooth sensitivity. You may want to avoid drinking soda or other acidic substances when you are experiencing tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity may also cause pain whenever you are brushing, flossing, or using alcohol-based mouthwash.  

Common Causes

There are many things that can cause tooth sensitivity. Identifying the underlying cause of your tooth sensitivity can help to minimize your symptoms and protect your teeth. In many cases, tooth sensitivity is a result of an issue that requires dental care to remedy effectively.

Thinning Enamel

Enamel is the protective outer layer of the teeth that serves to cover the more vulnerable inner layers of the teeth. It is one of the hardest substances in the body, but it inevitably wears down over time. Enamel can’t be regenerated, so it is vital to take the steps necessary to protect the teeth. One of the most common causes of wearing down enamel is using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too hard. Bruxism, which is grinding of the teeth at night, can wear down the enamel layer of the teeth. In addition, frequently consuming acidic beverages or foods may similarly cause wear to the enamel.

Gum Conditions

Various gum diseases can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth. This causes sections of the teeth to become vulnerable, which can lead to tooth sensitivity. It is important to take the steps necessary to care for the gums and prevent gum disease from becoming an issue.

Dental Work

Dental work often places a significant amount of strain on the teeth. Following these services, it is very normal to experience some level of tooth sensitivity. However, this sensitivity should only be temporary and should go away soon after the dental work has been done.

Whitening Treatments

Whitening treatments are used incredibly commonly, but the pursuit for pearly white teeth can cause damage to the teeth. This is especially applicable to whitening treatments that are done at home, rather than in a dental office. Whitening treatments often contain chemicals that can wear down the enamel over the teeth.

Treatments for Sensitivity

Treating sensitivity can go a long way toward improving your life and protecting the health of your smile. First, there are several methods that can be accomplished at home to alleviate pain caused by sensitive teeth. A salt water rinse can be used to reduce the inflammation and minimize pain. Green tea contains many antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, as well. You may want to avoid triggers until you are able to obtain the appropriate treatment for your sensitivity, which may involve avoiding foods or beverages that are acidic, sweet, hot, or cold.

Various treatments can be used to help deal with the sensitivity of teeth, as well. Switch to a toothbrush with softer bristles to prevent wear to the layer of enamel over the teeth. Consider using toothpaste that is designed specifically for sensitive teeth. If you grind your teeth at night, it may be particularly beneficial to obtain a mouth guard to protect your teeth throughout the evening. Take care whenever you use whitening treatments to minimize the amount of damage that your teeth sustain. Fluoride can bind to the teeth and minimize the likelihood of cavities or other issues occurring with the teeth. It comes in multiple forms, including gels, toothpastes, and mouthwash. Adding fluoride to your regular routine can help to strengthen your teeth and prevent sensitivity. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, it can be incredibly important to visit your dentist to determine the underlying cause of your pain.

Contact Us

The best way to deal with tooth sensitivity is through the services of an experienced professional. This will help to detect the cause of the sensitivity and prevent possible issues from escalating. We can then determine a treatment plan to resolve the existing issue and restore your teeth to the best possible condition. If you have been experiencing sensitivity in your teeth, you should contact our office to schedule an appointment. To learn more about tooth sensitivity and how to eliminate it, or to learn more about our other services, consult with our experienced team at Bismarck Advanced Dental Implants today!