What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is a common issue that affects millions of people across the globe. It can be caused by many things, including gum disease, tooth decay, and worn tooth enamel. Today, we will discuss the causes of tooth sensitivity and what you can do to prevent it.
- Brushing too hard
A majority of people tend to brush their teeth too hard in an effort to get them sparkling clean. However, this can actually lead to tooth sensitivity. You can wear away the enamel when you brush too hard. Once the enamel is gone, the underlying layer of your teeth, called dentin, is exposed.
Dentin is subtler than enamel and can cause pain when it comes into contact with hot or cold foods and drinks. If you find that you have sensitive teeth, try using a softer toothbrush, and be sure to use gentle strokes when brushing.
- Eating acidic food
There are many acidic foods that can cause tooth sensitivity. These include citrus fruits, tomatoes, vinegar, and soda. Acidic foods can erode the tooth enamel, making the teeth more sensitive to changes in temperature.
- Gum disease
Gum disease is a common cause of tooth sensitivity. It is an infection of the gums that can lead to pain, swelling, and bleeding. Left untreated, it can damage the bones and tissues supporting your teeth. Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Plaque can cause gum irritation and cause them to become inflamed.
Gum disease exposes the root of your teeth, making them sensitive. Treatment for gum disease includes brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, using antiseptic mouthwashes, and getting professional cleanings from your dentist.
- Teeth grinding
If you have tooth sensitivity, you may be grinding your teeth at night without realizing it. Teeth grinding can put extra pressure on your teeth and gums, which can lead to discomfort and even tooth damage over time. If you have a suspicion that you might be grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist about a customised mouth guard.
- Cracked tooth
A cracked tooth can cause tooth sensitivity. Cracks can occur in the tooth’s enamel, dentin, or root. Cracks in the enamel are the most common and are usually caused by chewing on hard objects or grinding your teeth. Cracks in the dentin are less common and are often caused by an injury to the tooth. Cracks in the root are the least common but can be very painful.
If you have a fractured tooth, you may experience pain when you bite down, eat, or even drink hot, cold, or sweet foods. It is paramount to see a dentist for a cracked tooth as soon as you can so that they can fix it before it gets worse.
Bottom Line
Irrespective of the cause of your tooth sensitivity, the first thing to do in treating it is to consult with your dentist. They will assist you in diagnosing the root cause of the problem and the best way to treat it. Visit us at Springvale Dental Clinic, and our dentist will be in a position to recommend the right treatment to ease your tooth sensitivity.
