TOOTH SENSITIVITY: Causes and Treatments
Tooth Sensitivity
Teeth can become sensitive to a number of substances like hot, cold, sweet, sour, or even breathing cold air. If the pain is sharp or sudden, it could mean your tooth nerve endings have been activated.
Causes
Dentin is the underlayer of your teeth. If that becomes exposed, usually due to enamel erosion or receding gums, you will find your teeth are more sensitive. If there is pain, it probably means the roots are exposed and the nerve is affected.
Brushing too hard
Using a toothbrush with bristles that are too hard, using too much force, or brushing too often can cause the enamel to erode and gums to recede.
Receding gums
Periodontal disease will make the gums pull away and expose tooth roots.
Gum Disease
Gum inflammation makes the ligaments softer and that can expose the tooth root.
Cracked Teeth
Chipped or broken teeth will let bacteria enter the pulp.
Teeth grinding
This can wear down the enamel.
Some tooth whiteners
Those that use baking soda or peroxide can create too much acidity.
Age
Individuals between ages 25 and 30 are more likely to report sensitivity than others
Plaque
When plaque gets to the root, the issue accelerates.
Mouthwash
Some mouthwashes contain too high a concentration of acid. Consult with your dentist about the correct brands to use.
Acidic foods
Citrus, tomatoes, pickles, teas and other foods.
Routine dental procedures
Sometimes teeth are sensitive following procedures.
Tooth sensitivity can be a nuisance, but it’s also an early warning sign that something is wrong and treating tooth sensitivity starts with understanding the causes. You can keep your pearly whites happy and healthy by understanding the causes and how to treat tooth sensitivity.
