Why Your Teeth Are Sensitive and What to Do

Do you feel pain when you eat ice cream, candy, or drink hot coffee? What about when you brush your teeth? You’re not alone! Many people have sensitive teeth for many different reasons.

While sometimes tooth sensitivity can be a sign of a cavity, you might just have sensitive teeth. Read on to discover what causes sensitive teeth and how you can make some changes to your routine to reduce the discomfort.

Symptoms of Sensitive Teeth

Tooth sensitivity is usually a reaction to something and not constant pain. Common triggers include:

• hot or cold foods and beverages
• sugary foods and beverages
• acidic foods and beverages
• brushing and flossing
• alcohol-based mouth rinses

Causes of Sensitive Teeth

Tooth sensitivity is a result of thin or worn enamel. Enamel is the barrier between the inside of your teeth and everything else. When it is too thin, your teeth are subject to and react to certain stimuli.

Some people are just born with thin enamel, but sometimes it’s a case under your control. Enamel can get worn down by:

• brushing too hard
• grinding your teeth
• eating or drinking a lot of acidic foods and beverages

Gum recession is another reason you may be experiencing tooth sensitivity. As your gums recede, they expose the roots of your teeth. Roots don’t have enamel to protect them, exposing them to triggers for sensitivity.

Tooth decay, broken teeth, cavities, and missing fillings and crowns also cause sensitivity by exposing the tooth’s dentin.

What to Do If You Have Sensitive Teeth

As you can see, there are many reasons why you experience tooth sensitivity. Some causes are uncontrollable, and some require professional intervention. All tooth sensitivity, however, can be alleviated by changing up your oral hygiene routine.

Visit Your Dentist

Calling your dentist is the first thing you should do if tooth sensitivity is bothering you. Your dentist can identify if cavities, loose fillings, or recessed gums are causing your sensitivity.

Use Special Dental Products

Swap your current oral hygiene products for ones specifically made for sensitive teeth. These kinds of toothpaste and mouthwashes don’t contain ingredients that irritate your teeth. Some kinds of toothpaste even include ingredients to block the pain.

Brush Gently with a Soft Brush

Brushing your teeth gently and with a soft-bristled brush will help prevent further gum recession and irritation. This can’t reverse previous damage, but it won’t unnecessarily irritate already sensitive areas.

Find Relief from Your Tooth Sensitivity

Northern Beaches Dental is the leading clinic for general dentistry in Frenchs Forest. Whether your tooth sensitivity is mild or making it difficult to talk or eat, your dentist can help.

During your appointment, we’ll take X-rays and do a complete examination to determine the exact cause of your sensitive teeth. We’ll get you started on a better oral hygiene regimen, and, if necessary, suggest other courses of action like prescription toothpaste, numbing creams, or mouthguards.

To schedule your appointment, call us on 02 9190 6925 or chat with us online.