Do you wince when eating cold ice cream or sipping a hot drink? Is it painful to eat sweet or acidic foods? Do you find yourself avoiding certain foods because they make your teeth hurt? If so, you may be dealing with tooth sensitivity, a common oral health concern with many possible causes.
At Eric Felt DDS, we understand the importance of educating our patients on how to care for their oral health. That’s why we’ve developed this guide to tooth sensitivity, helping you understand its causes, treatment options, and prevention strategies. Keep reading to learn the basics of this condition and how to find relief.
What Is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity refers to discomfort or pain in the teeth when they’re exposed to certain stimuli, such as hot, cold, acidic, or sweet foods and drinks. Typical signs include sharp, temporary pain in one or more teeth.
Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is often a symptom of other conditions, and can have many different causes, including:
- Enamel erosion: Anything that can thin enamel, including regular wear and tear, acidic foods and drinks, or aggressive brushing, can contribute to sensitivity.
- Gum recession: Gum disease can expose the sensitive roots of the teeth, causing sensitivity.
- Tooth decay and damage: Cavities, cracked fillings, chipped teeth, and other damage can lead to sensitivity.
- Dental treatments: Whitening treatments (including whitening toothpaste) or recent dental procedures can temporarily increase tooth sensitivity.
- Bruxism: Grinding or clenching your teeth is another common cause of tooth sensitivity.
How to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity
Preventing tooth sensitivity requires a diligent approach to oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily with the right technique and tools are essential in preventing tooth decay and gum disease, two of the most common causes of sensitivity.
Consuming too many acidic foods and drinks — tomatoes, citrus, carbonated beverages, plums, grapes, pineapples, and more — can erode your tooth enamel, making the teeth more sensitive. Avoid overindulging in these acidic substances to protect your enamel and prevent sensitivity.
If you struggle with tooth sensitivity, you can prevent it from worsening by using toothpaste and mouthwash specifically developed for those with sensitive teeth. These products soothe irritated nerves and build a protective barrier around the exposed dentin.
In addition to at-home care, it’s also important to visit your dentist regularly. Professional cleanings and exams are essential, allowing for early detection of issues like gum disease and tooth decay that can contribute to sensitivity. By attending your check-ups twice a year, you can keep your teeth in top condition and avoid common issues like tooth sensitivity.
Treatment Options
Tooth sensitivity is not likely to go away on its own. Finding relief requires diligent at-home oral hygiene routines and possible professional care from your dentist.
The right treatment for tooth sensitivity depends on its cause. Desensitizing toothpaste blocks pain signals, but it doesn’t address the root cause of sensitivity. Professional care may be necessary to repair damage and restore oral health.
Fluoride is an especially powerful tool for strengthening enamel. Professional treatments at your dentist’s office are an excellent way to stop sensitivity at its source. Dental sealants are another great way to protect your teeth, creating a shield around exposed dentin or roots.
In severe cases of gum recession caused by periodontitis, surgical procedures such as gum grafts may be necessary. Filling cavities, repairing chips, and addressing bruxism with custom mouthguards are additional solutions that can address the root cause of sensitivity.
When to See a Dentist
If you have persistent tooth pain, swollen gums, or sensitivity that doesn’t improve, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your dentist. These symptoms can be signs of potentially serious oral health conditions, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and more. Your dentist can pinpoint the exact cause of your symptoms and recommend the right treatments, ensuring your smile remains happy and healthy.
Find Relief from Tooth Sensitivity at Eric Felt DDS
If you’re struggling with sensitive teeth, don’t wait to take action. Tooth sensitivity can be a warning sign of serious conditions that require prompt intervention. Contact the office of Eric Felt DDS today to schedule your appointment.
Don’t let tooth sensitivity hold you back from eating and drinking your favorite foods and beverages. With help from our team, you can get your oral health back on track and find relief from bothersome sensitivity.
