What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity can cause a lot of problems. From difficulty eating to reduced brushing and flossing, the impact isn’t small and can impact your overall oral health. Let’s look at the causes of tooth sensitivity and what you can do to relieve it.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Multiple factors can cause tooth sensitivity; you may have worn enamel or an exposed root. This discomfort could also stem from gum disease, a chipped or cracked tooth, or a cavity.

Pain of any kind indicates a problem. For your oral and overall physical health, it’s important to address tooth sensitivity as soon as possible. If you experience sensitivity, it’s important to visit your dentist so they can identify the cause and provide treatment.

Treatment for Sensitive Teeth

Your dentist may recommend a number of treatments, depending on the root cause of your sensitivity. Some of these treatments include,

• Desensitizing toothpaste to help block pain
• Fluoride to help strengthen your enamel
• Bonding resin over exposed root surfaces
• Gum graft to replace lost tissue
• Root canal to address problems in your tooth

What to Avoid When You Have Sensitive Teeth

While you wait for your dental visit, taking care of your teeth is important. Avoid anything too hot or cold (like ice cream or coffee), as this will cause additional pain and could aggravate any underlying condition. You should also avoid alcohol, sugary foods, hard candies, chips, and overly acidic foods such as tomato sauce or pickled foods.

Preventing Tooth Sensitivity

The best treatment is always prevention. Good oral hygiene helps prevent tooth sensitivity. Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle toothpaste. It’s also important to floss regularly to help remove food and plaque between your teeth.

If you grind your teeth, you risk wearing away the enamel or cracking your teeth, which can lead to sensitivity. Talk to your dentist about a mouth guard to help prevent grinding.

Your diet can also affect your teeth. Minimize alcoholic drinks and sugary foods and drinks, especially carbonated beverages. Consider drinking acidic drinks with a straw to limit contact with your teeth. If you eat acidic foods, drink water to help neutralize the acid.

Are You Looking for a Dentist in Philadelphia, PA?

Absolute Smile is here to meet your needs. Whether tooth sensitivity or an annual checkup, we will examine your mouth to ensure good oral health. Contact us today to make an appointment. Take advantage of our free new patient consultation to meet our staff and choose your new family dentist.