If you experience regular pain in your teeth, then you must be wondering – are my teeth sensitive? Also known as root sensitivity or hypersensitivity, tooth sensitivity is a condition characterized by pain in one tooth or several teeth.
About 50% of people in the US suffer from tooth sensitivity. The pain usually occurs when you take cold, hot, sweet, or acidic drinks and foods. Other causes of teeth sensitivity include breathing cold air, cavities, and broken teeth.
What Causes Teeth Sensitivity?
In most cases, teeth sensitivity is a result of periodontal disease or receded gums exposing your root areas to dentin. According to Colgate, receded gums are common in the world, and more than 80% of people experience gum recession by the age of 65.
When the root of your tooth is exposed, it means the enamel (which is the coating) is peeling off. Brushing your teeth too hard or using abrasive toothpaste can wear off the enamel, thus exposing the dentin.
For example, a very acidic diet comprising of plenty of citrus foods or sodas dissolves the teeth’s surfaces leading to erosion. Medical conditions, such as GERD and Bulimia, can also cause dental decay due to acid coming up from the stomach to the mouth.
When your teeth are sensitive, you’ll brush poorly because of the pain. As a result, you’ll be at a higher risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Are My Teeth Sensitive and What Is the Best Treatment?
After a dentist rules out any underlying causes, you can proceed to receive treatment. Depending on your circumstances, dentists will recommend various types of procedures, such as:
- Prescribing a desensitizing toothpaste that offers relief by blocking the pain caused by sensitive teeth
- Applying fluoride on the sensitive teeth to strengthen the enamel and reduce pain
- Using bonding resin to the root of the sensitive teeth
- A surgical gum graft for teeth exposed to sensitivity due to loss of gum tissue
- Root canal services – a procedure that treats the condition from the core of the tooth
If you grind your teeth, that may be an answer to the question, why are my teeth sensitive? Consider asking the dentist about a mouth guard that can protect you from fracturing your teeth.
To prevent the problem of teeth sensitivity from recurring, observe a proper dental hygiene routine. Brush your teeth and floss twice daily. Don’t brush your teeth vigorously, use gentle strokes instead.
Also, limit your intake of acidic foods and drinks. If you have to drink acidic beverages, use a straw to limit contact with your teeth. Afterward, drink plenty of water to neutralize the acidity in your mouth.
Achieve Optimal Dental Health With South High Dental
Seek medical assistance if you have tooth sensitivity. The dentist will examine your teeth to establish the cause of the problem and then help you to get the best treatment. For example, you can treat a cavity or broken tooth using dental fillings.
At South High Dental, you’ll choose from a variety of treatments, including:
- General dentistry options
- Orthodontics services
- Oral surgery
- Dental crown treatments
- CEREC crown procedures
Don’t beat yourself while wondering – are my teeth sensitive? You can enjoy optimal oral health by observing proper hygiene and visiting the dentist twice every year as recommended. Use your vacation to relax and unwind instead of going to the dentist. Contact us at 614.363.2462 today.
