More adults and children experience sensitive teeth than is commonly realized and can come from multiple sources, that are not always cavities or tooth decay. Some individuals just have sensitive teeth due to genetics. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity here are some common causes of sensitive teeth and how to handle the ache or pain. Mills River Family Dental is always happy to see you and help to treat sensitive teeth.
Common Symptoms
If you have had a cavity before, you know how that pain can feel, sensitive teeth can be similar, but can also be achier rather than sharp pain.
Because there are many causes or reasons that your tooth could be sensitive, there are multiple symptoms that come from sensitive teeth. Some common symptoms include pain when exposed to hot or cold, a twinge in just one tooth, pain when brushing, and tender gums.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
If you have sensitive teeth, there can be other causes for your pain besides a cavity. Here are some causes and what causes them to occur.
Worn Enamel: The most common cause of sensitive teeth is that your enamel has worn down and the nerves inside your teeth are more exposed. This makes it hard to handle hot, cold, or acidic foods because these nerves are susceptible to sensitivity. If this is your cause of tooth sensitivity, bleaching and fluoride might also make the pain worse.
Cavity: The start of a cavity can make your teeth more sensitive rather than painful. Cavities are small holes in your teeth that can expose those nerves inside the teeth. Cavities are caused by food or sugar sitting on top of the tooth and wearing it down, so sugary foods can irritate it more.
Dentin Hypersensitivity: Again, when the tooth’s inner layer gets exposed it causes sensitivity. This condition is usually accompanied by sharp pain for a short duration. This can also come with receding gums, exposing parts of the tooth that has not been out before.
Receding Gums: Your gums protect the roots of your teeth, so when they recede, these roots are exposed and can become painful. Sensitive teeth can really be sensitive roots and gums rather than the tooth itself.
Acid: If you experience acid reflux or are constantly having acidic foods or drinks, this can cause sensitive teeth. This acid is extremely deteriorative and can wear down the enamel of your teeth.
Cracked Tooth: Cracked teeth expose the inside nerves of the tooth. If your tooth is cracked you are also more susceptible to cavities. Cracked teeth can come from biting something hard, hitting your tooth, or other factors. Sometimes cracks can heal on their own, but it is best to contact your dentist just in case.
Grinding Teeth: Many adults don’t realize they are grinding their teeth until they experience sensitive teeth. Grinding or clenching your teeth together can make them feel painful and achy. Grinding your teeth can lead to other problems by removing more of your enamel.
Other Factors: During pregnancy, after recent dental procedures, or after bleaching, you may experience more sensitivity.
Treatment Options
To build or strengthen enamel, you can use desensitizing toothpaste to help block pain and prevent cavities. This is a good option for those who experience sensitive teeth while eating certain hot, cold, or acidic foods.
For gum problems, your dentist can perform a gum graft, which takes tissue from elsewhere in your mouth and cover the exposed tooth.
Your dentist might also suggest that you stop harsh bleaching, use a softer bristled brush, or don’t brush as hard. If grinding your teeth is a common problem for you, you can also look into a mouth guard or sleep study to improve the set of your teeth while you sleep.
If none of these options have worked for you, your dentist might recommend a root canal to work on the soft core inside your tooth. This is the most effective procedure in dealing with sensitive teeth.
Work With Mills River Family Dental
Our team wants to help everyone feel great about their smile. We offer a variety of general and cosmetic dentistry services to help treat patients of all ages. We are proud to offer high-quality and affordable dental care that can fit your family’s needs. Exceptional services need to be accompanied by exceptional customer service, which is what we strive to provide for every patient.
If you are experiencing sensitive teeth, Mills River Dental can help by providing fillings, cleanings, root canals, or in rare cases, oral surgery. With experienced dentists and hygienists, we can give you advice on how to improve sensitivity and consult you on actions going forward. Contact us today or visit our office in Mills River, NC.