Many of us have experienced tooth sensitivity at one time or another. Tooth sensitivity typically occurs when external stimuli (such as cold drinks or sugary snacks) create a response in the nerve of a tooth/teeth. It creates this response by travelling through the microscopic channels that lead from the outside to the inside of the teeth. The tooth’s outside layer is called the enamel, and the inside layers are called the dentin and pulp. There are various causes why teeth may become sensitive over time.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Cavities
Cavities are small dark holes that form in teeth due to sugar consumption that leads to plaque build-up. Over time, harmful bacteria eat away at the surface of the tooth, creating a hole. Once a cavity is formed, the tooth may be sensitive to cold and sweets. The larger the cavity, the more sensitive the tooth is likely to be.
Gum Recession
Gum recession or shrinking gums occurs when the gum tissue moves away due to aggressive brushing factors. When the gum recedes, it exposes the tooth’s underlying root, which is more susceptible to sensitivity.
Abrasion
Tooth abrasion occurs when the tooth’s outer layer, called enamel, gets worn away over time by aggressive brushing habits. Tooth abrasion appears as notches along the gum line. The notched out areas of the tooth are more sensitive because they lack the protective coating of enamel.
Erosion
The frequent consumption of acidic drinks and foods lead to acid erosion of enamel. Conditions such as acid reflux and bulimia, where stomach acid is often exposed to the teeth, can also lead to acid erosion.
Wear
Habits such as clenching and grinding can lead to wear on the biting surfaces of the teeth. The wear can present as indentations or flattening of the teeth. Worn down tooth surfaces can cause sensitivity.
Remedies For Tooth Sensitivity
It may be difficult to pinpoint the cause of tooth sensitivity in some cases, but it isn’t a condition with which you must live with. There are several treatment options for tooth sensitivity, no matter what the cause is.
- Of course, if the cause of sensitivity is a cavity, the cavity must be filled in ASAP. When cavities are left, they grow in size and severity. The only way to eradicate the sensitivity from a cavity is to fix the cavity.
- Use sensitivity toothpaste. Sensitivity toothpaste works by blocking the external stimuli from entering into the microscopic channels in the enamel. Sensitivity toothpaste offers instantaneous and long-lasting relief.
- Adjust your brushing technique, don’t be aggressive or push hard with your toothbrush
- Wear a nightguard if you clench or grind your teeth at night to prevent wear
- If the cause of sensitivity is gum recession, gum grafting can bring the gums back up to normal height and prevent sensitivity.
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, make sure to talk with your dentist about the best treatment options for you. If you have any questions about tooth sensitivity, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule an appointment.