Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?

Tooth sensitivity is a common dental condition caused by various factors, such as worn enamel, gum recession, gum disease, acidic foods and beverages, dental procedures, and cavities. Understanding what can cause sensitive teeth will help you determine when you should seek professional help from your dentist.

But it’s often a good idea to visit your dentist if you have persistent discomfort or pain, regardless of whether you know what’s causing it. A dentist can identify the underlying cause of your tooth sensitivity and provide you with effective treatment options.

Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?

Tooth sensitivity can occur for myriad reasons, but it’s essential to see your dentist for an oral exam to identify the cause, create a personalized treatment plan, and prevent future damage. 

Worn Enamel

Our teeth are made of 4 main layers:

• Enamel: the hard, protective outer layer that protects your teeth from bacteria.
• Dentin: the bone-like material that surrounds the tooth’s pulp. It provides support and protection but is softer than enamel and more susceptible to decay.
• Cementum: the layer that covers your tooth root and helps anchor your tooth in your jaw.
• Pulp: the innermost layer that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues.

If the enamel on your teeth wears away, the dentin underneath becomes exposed. Dentin contains microscopic tubules that allow external stimuli to reach the nerve endings in the tooth, leading to discomfort, sensitivity, or pain.

Enamel erosion can be caused by grinding your teeth, chronic acid reflux, regular use of certain medications, and genetic disorders that affect your tooth development.

Gum Recession

Gum recession is a condition that causes the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth, leaving the roots exposed. The roots do not have an enamel coating, which makes them sensitive to heat, cold, and touch. Gum recession can occur due to periodontal disease, brushing too hard, aging, or genetics.

Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, can cause tooth sensitivity through various mechanisms. When the gums are inflamed and infected, they can recede or pull away from the teeth, exposing the sensitive roots. This exposure leads to increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, as well as pressure.

The inflammation associated with periodontal disease can also damage the structures that support the teeth, including the gums, bones, and ligaments. As these supporting structures become compromised, the teeth may become loose or unstable.

The presence of gum disease often coincides with tooth decay, which exposes the tooth’s nerves, making them more susceptible to sensitivity.

Cavities

Cavities are tiny holes in the enamel and are caused by a mix of sugars from our food and the bacteria in our mouths that create a mild acid that erodes enamel. 

Cavities leave your teeth at risk for decay, which can reach the pulp and cause toothaches or infection if not promptly treated.

Acidic Foods & Beverages 

Frequently consuming acidic foods and beverages can lead to tooth sensitivity. The acids present in these foods can wear down your enamel and start the process of enamel erosion. Acidic foods include citrus fruits, vinegar, soda, and certain wines. 

Dental Procedures

Some dental procedures can make your teeth more sensitive, specifically those that require removing some of the enamel, such as teeth whitening or dental bonding. These procedures can also cause temporary enamel erosion during the process, which can cause sensitivity.

A professional deep cleaning can also leave your teeth feeling a bit sensitive. Also called scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning is a thorough procedure performed by a dental professional to eliminate plaque, tartar, and bacteria below the gumline. 

During the cleaning, specialized instruments reach deep into the pockets between teeth and gums, which can result in mild gum tissue trauma. Plaque and tartar are also removed, and the newly exposed tooth surfaces may be more sensitive to temperature, certain foods, or the air. But this heightened sensitivity should subside within a few days or weeks.

How to Get Rid of Tooth Sensitivity

There isn’t always a simple answer on how to get rid of sensitive teeth. It depends on the root cause of your discomfort—which your dentist can help you determine. Below are several tips to consider if you’re struggling with sensitivity problems.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

An initial step in getting rid of or even preventing tooth sensitivity is to maintain proper oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush using fluoride toothpaste, and floss at least once a day. 

You can use an antiseptic mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath—but don’t use it to replace your regular brushing and flossing.

Avoid Foods & Drinks that Trigger Sensitivity

Certain items can trigger tooth sensitivity, especially hot and cold foods or drinks. Avoid them if you can, or at the very least, consume them in moderation. 

Acidic drinks like pop and citrus juices can cause enamel erosion and expose the dentin, increasing your sensitivity. Instead, drink more water, milk, or sugar-free drinks.

Use Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth

Using toothpaste formulated specifically for sensitive teeth can be a game-changer. These products contain potassium nitrate and strontium chloride that help block the pain sensation. 

Use them as directed by your dentist or the manufacturer’s instructions, and you should notice an improvement in your tooth sensitivity within a few weeks.

Use a Mouthguard to Protect Your Teeth from Grinding

Teeth grinding or bruxism is a condition that can lead to tooth sensitivity. Investing in a custom-fit mouthguard could be well worth the money if you grind your teeth. The mouthguard can help distribute the pressure evenly and reduce the sensitivity caused by constant pressure on your teeth.

See Your Dentist

See your dentist for routine cleanings and exams to help spot and treat minor issues before they become major ones. Your dentist can evaluate your teeth and gums to determine the cause of sensitivity and suggest a treatment plan to reduce your symptoms. 

Depending on the cause and severity of your sensitivity, you may require a filling, a crown, or a gum graft. But with proper treatment, you can alleviate tooth sensitivity and protect your oral health.

Deal with Your Sensitive Teeth Today

Sensitive teeth may cause minor discomfort, but they can also create enough discomfort to prevent you from enjoying things like ice cream with the kids or a hot chocolate on a chilly day. Sometimes, brushing with a specialized toothpaste is enough to fix the issue, but not always.

Call our team at South Bolton Dental Centre to discuss your options today. We’re happy to book you an appointment so one of our dentists can examine your teeth and help you develop a treatment plan.