Do you experience a raw, tender, stinging sensation on your teeth, particularly when consuming hot or cold beverages or food? Do you wince when flossing or brushing your teeth because of pain? If you answered yes to these questions, then you may have tooth sensitivity.
The condition is not unusual. Many people complain of experiencing discomfort, either persistently or occasionally.
Tooth sensitivity is primarily the result of the wearing down of the surface of the outer tooth or the enamel, thus leaving the initial surface of the inner tooth, or the dentin, exposed.
What are the common causes of the condition?
The wear and tear of many years cause the enamel to naturally wear down. The dentin becomes exposed, making you more prone to tooth sensitivity.
Forceful Brushing/ Using a Toothbrush with Hard Bristles
When you brush your teeth with too much enthusiasm, you tend to wear away the protective enamel and leave the tubules leading the dental nerves exposed. Foods or beverages that are sticky, acidic, cold, or hot are likely to cause discomfort and pain.
You get the same results when you use a toothbrush with hard bristles.
To avoid tooth sensitivity, make sure to brush your teeth using mild and gentle strokes. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles.
Acidic Food
If the paths to your dental nerves are open to the elements, you are likely to experience some tenderness or discomfort, particularly if you eat acidic food. Stay away from pickles, kiwi, grapefruit, lemon, tomato sauce and other sour foods.
Constant Grinding of Teeth
If you chronically grind your teeth, you tend to erode the protective enamel and expose the dentin containing the tubules leading to the dental nerves. Your teeth become highly sensitive.
Dentist offices in Oxon Hill MD usually advise people who habitually grind their teeth, to wear a mouth guard to prevent damage. It is best to opt for a mouth guard especially designed to fit your bite.
Use of Toothpastes with Tooth-Whitening Ingredients
The chemicals that manufacturers use to make toothpastes whiten teeth are sometimes too harsh, or too strong. If you are sensitive to such ingredients, it may be prudent to switch toothpastes.
Use of Mouth Rinses and Mouthwashes
Similar to whitening toothpastes, a big number of mouth rinses and mouthwashes list harsh chemicals like alcohol as ingredients. With constant use of these products, your teeth become more sensitive, particularly if the dentin is already exposed.
It is better to use neutral and mild rinses, or do away with the rinses altogether. Just floss and brush diligently.
Gum Disease
Tooth sensitivity can be brought on by receding gums that are usually associated with age, gingivitis or gum disease. If this is the case, your dentist may recommend treating the gum disease, and sealing your teeth through an appropriate dental procedure.
Excessive Plaque
Plaque, which builds up on your teeth, tends to cause the enamel to corrode. Without the necessary protection that the enamel provides, your teeth are likely to become highly sensitive, and more prone to discomfort.
You have to be conscientious about dental care. Make sure that you go to your dentist for regular professional cleanings.
Tooth sensitivity is a condition that is manageable with the right dental solutions. Consult your dentist so they can determine what is causing your tooth sensitivity, and recommend the appropriate management strategy.
