What Is Causing My Tooth Sensitivity And What Can I Do About It?

It’s extremely common for people to experience tooth sensitivity when consuming hot or cold foods or drinks. However, having pain along with other symptoms, such as loose teeth, inflamed gums or pain when chewing means your tooth sensitivity may be caused by an underlying dental problem. While your dentist can diagnose the problem, it’s best you understand what is causing your tooth sensitivity to prevent further dental problems in the future.

Tooth sensitivity is typically caused when your tooth enamel, which protects your teeth, is worn down or when you have gum recession. And when the dentine, or underlying surface, becomes exposed, your enamel and gums are no longer able to provide the protection to the root and the tooth itself.

Why Is My Tooth Sensitive?

Tooth sensitivity can be triggered by a myriad of things, including:

• Periodontal/gum disease
• Brushing your teeth too aggressively
• Using a hard-bristled toothbrush
• Worn away tooth enamel (which is what protects your tooth’s nerves)
• Exposure of roots
• Grinding of teeth
• Tooth decay

If you suspect that your tooth sensitivity may be caused by tooth decay, infection or disease, be sure to visit your family dentist as soon as possible. But if your teeth are sensitive due to your habits, or you inherited enamels that wears away easily compared to other people, you may be able to treat your tooth sensitivity from the comfort of your home.

Tooth Sensitivity Treatments:

At-Home Treatments- One of the first things you can try to help treat sensitive teeth from home is proper oral hygiene, such as brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using non-abrasive toothpaste. You should also avoid certain types of food and beverages, like coffee, carbonated drinks and even yogurt. These products all contain acid that can wear away your already worn down tooth enamel. If you clench or grind your teeth, try wearing a night guard to bed to avoid wearing down your enamel even further.

In-Office Treatments- Since extremely sensitive teeth are typically caused by more complex dental problems, it is important to visit your dentist to have the problem treated directly. Treatments could include crowns, bonding, inlays and onlays, however it all depends on your individual case. If gum disease is causing tooth sensitivity, you’ll have to have that treated as well. If you’ve lost enough gum tissue from the root, your dentist may recommend a gum graft or the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique. If you have serious tooth sensitivity, your dentist may take x-rays to see if a root canal may be needed.

After having your tooth sensitivity taken care of it’s extremely important that you start taking better care of your teeth and gums going forward. Not only will this take care of your teeth and gums and relieve the pain, but it will also ensure that you have good oral health!

If you’re suffering from any type of tooth sensitivity and are seeking treatment, contact Advanced Dental Group at (561) 689-0872​ to schedule a consultation today! Or visit our website at www.advanceddentalgrp.com for information regarding the dental services we offer here at Advanced Dental Group.