Tooth sensitivity is a common dental issue that distresses almost everyone at some point in life. It can be caused by a number of factors, including tooth decay, gum disease, and dental procedures. In this blog post, we’ll explore what tooth sensitivity is, what causes it, and how you can treat and prevent it.
What is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, is a condition in which the teeth become sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. It occurs when the dentin layer of the tooth, which is located just beneath the enamel and cementum, becomes exposed. Dentin contains tiny tubules that connect to the nerve endings in the tooth, which can cause pain or discomfort when exposed to certain stimuli.
Reasons Of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity can be caused of the below mentioned factors:
- Tooth decay: When bacteria in the mouth produce acids that can eat away at the enamel of the tooth, it can cause cavities that can lead to tooth sensitivity.
- Gum disease: When the gums become inflamed and pull away from the teeth, it can expose the sensitive roots of the tooth.
- Over brushing: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away the enamel of the tooth that leads to sensitivity.
- Dental procedures: Some dental procedures like teeth whitening, can cause temporary tooth sensitivity.
- Age: As we age, the enamel of our teeth can naturally wear away, leading to sensitivity.
- Acidic foods and drinks: Foods and drinks that are high in acidity can wear away the enamel of the teeth.
- Gum recession: Gum recession occurs when the gum tissue pulls back from the tooth, exposing the tooth’s roots, which are not protected by enamel, and can cause sensitivity.
- Tooth decay: Tooth decay can lead to the formation of cavities, which can cause tooth sensitivity and pain.
- Cracked or chipped teeth: When a tooth is cracked or chipped, it can expose the underlying dentin, leading to sensitivity.
- Teeth grinding: Grinding your teeth can wear down the enamel and lead to tooth sensitivity.
- Tooth whitening products: Over-the-counter and professional teeth whitening products can cause tooth sensitivity, especially if not used properly.
- Acidic foods and drinks: Consuming acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits and soda, can erode the enamel and make teeth sensitive.
- Dental procedures: Some dental procedures, such as cleanings, fillings, and root canals, can cause temporary tooth sensitivity.
Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
The main symptom of tooth sensitivity is pain or discomfort when consuming hot or cold foods and drinks, sweet or acidic foods. Other symptoms include:
- Sharp pain in one or more than one tooth
- Pain that stays after hot or cold intake
- Discomfort or pain while biting or chewing
- Pain while brushing or flossing
- Discoloration or visible damage to the teeth
- Swelling or tenderness in the gums
- Pain that radiates from one tooth to others in the same area.
How to Treat Tooth Sensitivity
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, there are certain things you can do to reduce the level of pain and discomfort:
- Use desensitizing toothpaste: Desensitizing toothpaste contains ingredients that block the tubules in the dentin, reducing sensitivity.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush can help prevent further sensitivity
- Avoid acidic foods and drinks: Limiting your intake of acidic foods and drinks can help prevent further sensitivity.
- Practice good oral hygiene: Brush twice a day, floss daily, and look for dentist near me so you can make a regular visit.
- Use fluoride treatments: Fluoride treatments like fluoride varnish or gel, can help strengthen the enamel and reduce sensitivity.
- Dental procedures: If your sensitivity is severe, your dentist can recommend a dental procedure, like a filling or crown.
Limit acidic foods and drinks: Limiting your intake of acidic foods and drinks can help prevent enamel.
In conclusion, tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem that can cause pain and discomfort. It can be caused by a number of factors, including tooth decay or gum diseases but if you take great care of your teeth and follow the above tips you will get rid of the sensitivity problem.
