What Causes Sensitive Teeth and How to Treat It

Tooth sensitivity can turn simple pleasures like enjoying ice cream or sipping hot coffee into painful experiences. At Valley Dental Care, we often hear patients ask, “What causes sensitive teeth?”

This common dental issue affects millions of people worldwide, impacting their daily lives and oral health. In this post, we’ll explore the root causes of tooth sensitivity and provide effective treatment options to help you regain comfort and confidence in your smile.

Why Do Teeth Become Sensitive?

Tooth sensitivity affects millions of people worldwide, impacting their daily lives and oral health. Understanding the causes of tooth sensitivity is essential for effective treatment and prevention.

Enamel Erosion: The Silent Culprit

Enamel erosion stands as one of the primary reasons for tooth sensitivity. This occurs when the protective outer layer of your teeth wears away, exposing the underlying dentin. Studies have shown that tooth surface hardness plays a role in the development of erosive damage, affecting both primary and permanent teeth. To protect your teeth, rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic foods and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.

Gum Recession: Exposing Sensitive Areas

Gum recession plays a significant role in tooth sensitivity. When gums recede, they expose the tooth roots, which lack enamel protection. Gingival recession has direct causes and predisposing factors. Interestingly, orthodontic treatment can help prevent recession and even contribute to its treatment. Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and use gentle, circular motions when brushing to prevent further damage.

Hidden Dangers: Decay, Cracks, and Grinding

Tooth decay, cavities, and cracked teeth can all increase sensitivity. These issues allow bacteria to penetrate deeper into the tooth, irritating the nerve endings. Additionally, teeth grinding (bruxism) wears down enamel over time. A case report has shown that bruxism, when associated with acid feeding, smoking habits, and episodes of gastric reflux, can cause severe tooth wear. If you suspect you grind your teeth at night, consider getting a custom night guard from your dentist.

Post-Procedure Sensitivity

Dental procedures, while necessary for oral health, can sometimes result in temporary sensitivity. This is normal and usually subsides within a few weeks. However, if sensitivity persists, it’s important to schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist.

The Role of Diet and Lifestyle

Your diet and lifestyle choices significantly impact tooth sensitivity. Consuming sugary and acidic foods (such as sodas, citrus fruits, and tomatoes) can erode enamel over time. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption also contribute to gum recession and enamel damage. Try to limit these habits and incorporate tooth-friendly foods (like cheese, yogurt, and leafy greens) into your diet to support oral health.

Now that we’ve explored the common causes of tooth sensitivity, let’s move on to discuss effective treatment options that can help alleviate discomfort and protect your teeth.

How to Treat Sensitive Teeth

At Valley Dental Care, we understand how tooth sensitivity can impact your daily life. Several effective treatments can alleviate discomfort and protect your teeth. Let’s explore some of the most successful options for managing tooth sensitivity.

Desensitizing Toothpaste: A Simple Yet Effective Solution

One of the easiest ways to combat tooth sensitivity is to use desensitizing toothpaste. These specially formulated products contain compounds that help block pain signals from the tooth surface to the nerve. Studies have confirmed the efficacy of certain toothpastes in decreasing dental hypersensitivity, including those of 2 weeks’ duration.

To maximize the benefits, apply a small amount directly to sensitive areas before bed and leave it on overnight. This allows the active ingredients more time to penetrate and protect your teeth.

Professional Fluoride Treatments: Strengthening Your Enamel

Fluoride treatments are a powerful tool in the fight against tooth sensitivity. These in-office procedures involve applying a highly concentrated fluoride gel or varnish to your teeth. The American Dental Association notes that silver diamine fluoride (SDF) currently has FDA clearance for treating tooth sensitivity, offering potential benefits including low cost.

Advanced Dental Procedures for Severe Cases

For more severe cases of tooth sensitivity, advanced dental procedures may be necessary. Dental bonding (which involves applying a tooth-colored resin to exposed root surfaces) can effectively seal off sensitive areas. In cases of significant gum recession, a gum graft may cover exposed roots and restore gum health.

In rare instances where sensitivity persists despite other treatments, root canal therapy might be considered. While this may sound daunting, modern techniques have made root canals much more comfortable and effective than in the past.

The Power of Proper Oral Hygiene

While professional treatments play a crucial role, maintaining proper oral hygiene at home is equally important in managing tooth sensitivity. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions when brushing to avoid further enamel wear and gum recession. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that can contribute to sensitivity.

Try incorporating an alcohol-free, fluoride mouthwash into your routine. Recent research suggests that antimicrobial mouthwashes can reduce dental plaque biofilm and potentially prevent plaque-induced oral diseases.

Now that we’ve covered various treatment options for sensitive teeth, let’s move on to discuss effective prevention strategies that can help you maintain a healthy, pain-free smile in the long term.

How to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity

Choose the Right Toothbrush and Technique

The foundation of good oral health starts with proper brushing. Always choose a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can wear down enamel and cause gum recession, which leads to sensitivity. When brushing, use gentle, circular motions instead of aggressive back-and-forth scrubbing. This technique removes plaque effectively without damaging your teeth or gums.

Take time when brushing – try to brush for at least two minutes, twice a day.

Mind Your Diet

What you eat and drink plays a significant role in preventing tooth sensitivity. Limit your intake of acidic foods and beverages (such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and carbonated drinks). These can erode your enamel over time. If you consume acidic items, rinse your mouth with water afterward and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.

Incorporate foods rich in calcium and phosphorus into your diet. These minerals help strengthen tooth enamel. Cheese, yogurt, and leafy greens are excellent choices.

Protect Against Grinding

If you grind your teeth at night (a condition known as bruxism), you face a higher risk for tooth sensitivity. A custom-fitted night guard can protect your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding. While over-the-counter options exist, a professionally made night guard will provide the best fit and protection.

If you wake up with jaw pain or headaches, or if your partner reports hearing grinding sounds, consult with a dentist about a night guard.

Regular Dental Visits Are Key

Prevention trumps cure. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings maintain oral health and prevent sensitivity. Professional cleanings remove tartar buildup that you can’t address at home, and your dentist can spot early signs of enamel wear or gum recession before they lead to sensitivity.

The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year. However, some individuals may need more frequent visits based on their oral health status.

Be Cautious with Whitening

While everyone loves a bright smile, excessive use of whitening products can lead to sensitivity. If you’re interested in whitening, consult with a dentist first. They can recommend professional treatments or over-the-counter products that are effective yet gentle on your teeth.

By using professional-grade products and following expert guidance, you can achieve a brighter smile without compromising your comfort.

Final Thoughts

Tooth sensitivity can significantly impact your daily life. Various factors, including enamel erosion, gum recession, tooth decay, and grinding, contribute to this uncomfortable condition. Understanding what causes sensitive teeth helps you take effective steps to treat and prevent this issue.

Prompt action to address tooth sensitivity prevents further damage and maintains optimal oral health. Ignoring the problem may lead to more severe dental issues, potentially requiring invasive and costly treatments. Simple preventive strategies like using a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoiding acidic foods can significantly reduce your risk of developing sensitive teeth.

At Valley Dental Care, we strive to help you achieve a healthy, pain-free smile. Our experienced team offers advanced dentistry options tailored to your unique needs. If you struggle with tooth sensitivity or other dental concerns, we encourage you to schedule a complimentary consultation with Valley Dental Care.

Meet the Author

Dr. Samantha Kothapalli

General Dentist

Dr. Sam provides personalized dental care with a focus on prevention, patient education, and modern, comfortable treatment.

Meet Dr. Sam

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