Having sensitive teeth can force you to have to avoid eating some of your favorite foods. Sensitive teeth make it very uncomfortable to consume anything that is hot or cold. It is also a rather common issue with over 40 million people in the U.S. dealing with it according to the Academy of General Dentistry.
There are a number of dental problems that can lead to increased sensitivity. Before we explore the causes any further, here is a look at how your teeth become sensitive in the first place.
Your teeth have an exterior layer of protection known as the enamel. Underneath this, is a layer known as your dentin. The dentin contains tiny tubules that contain nerve endings. The lower portion of your dentin receives extra protection from a layer of cementum.
When either of these protective layers sustains damage, your dentin becomes exposed to the extreme temperatures of the items you consume. That's what creates the painful sensation you feel when eating hot and cold foods.
Now that you have a clearer understanding of why your teeth become sensitive, it is important to review some of the common causes of sensitive teeth. These include:
Damaging your enamel by brushing too hard
Enamel erosion due to consuming too many acidic beverages and foods
Tooth decay
Fractures, chipped, or broken teeth
Gum disease that leaves your teeth's roots exposed
Teeth grinding
Certain dental treatments
If you find yourself dealing with sensitive teeth, the first step is to contact your dentist to discuss your symptoms. There are many treatments available that can help to reduce the discomfort you experience when you eat.
Once your dentist figures out why you have sensitive teeth, alleviating your symptoms are only a matter of treating the underlying cause. That can be as simple as filling up a cavity or covering a tooth with a crown.
For cases where your dentist is unable to determine the cause of your discomfort, there are desensitizing options. A fluoride gel can be used to strengthen the tooth and reduce sensitivity, and there are many toothpaste brands that can close off the nerve endings in your exposed dentin.
If you are wondering if you should go see a dentist about your sensitive teeth, here are five signs that you should:
You have difficulty eating/drinking hot or cold foods and beverages like ice cream and tea
You experience pain when eating sugary or sour foods and beverages
You experience discomfort when you breathe in cold air
You experience discomfort when you brush your teeth
Pain when biting down or touching a tooth
While it is not always easy to figure out the cause of sensitive teeth without a thorough examination from a dentist, there is a solution for virtually any underlying issue that is causing your increased sensitivity.
Dealing with sensitive teeth? Contact Hemet Dental Center: Brian Stiewel DDS, INC. today and find out what the best course of treatment is.
Call us at (951) 707-4366 today to reach or request an appointment in our Hemet dentist office here: https://hemetdentalcenter.com.
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