Understanding The Causes Of Sensitive Teeth

Afro-American man having dental ache, reaction on hot coffee, sensitive teeth

Do you notice discomfort when eating or drinking certain things? Hot, cold, or sweet snacks or drinks can cause a sensation of sharp or stinging pain. The team at Allen & Neumann Family Dentistry in Pella, IA can help identify the cause of this problem. In today’s blog, we will explore the potential causes of this discomfort.

Previous Dental Work

If you have recently had treatments such as cosmetic enhancements or restorations, it is common to experience some mild discomfort. For instance, when you have professional whitening done, the bleaching agents used to remove stains can cause some irritation. To increase your comfort, you can use sensitive toothpaste and avoid triggering foods.

Damage to your tooth can also cause discomfort. Cracking or chipping a tooth can expose the nerves and make it difficult to chew, drink, and speak. To solve this, a restoration such as a crown can repair and protect the problem. Receiving a dental crown can occasionally cause some irritation following the restoration. However, if this sensation persists, you should speak with your dentist as soon as possible.

Worn Down Teeth

Conditions such as bruxism may cause you to wear down your teeth. This disorder makes you grind your teeth without realizing it and is often done as you sleep. It is often associated with TMJ, which causes you to place excessive tension on your jaws. If you often feel pain, headaches, or discomfort when chewing, you should mention this at your next checkup. Your dentist can help diagnose you with TMD and help create a solution for you.

Tooth Decay Or Gum Recession

Cavities may also be the cause of your sensitivity. There are several stages of tooth decay, from demineralization, enamel erosion, dentin erosion, and further. When the enamel is worn away, your teeth are not protected from acids from the food and beverages you drink. Along with a change in the texture of your tooth’s surface, you may also notice pain when eating sweet or hot drinks and food. Luckily, this problem can be solved with a filling. If the cavity is in a more advanced stage, root canal therapy may be suggested instead to recover the tooth.

When you have gingivitis, some of the first symptoms you may notice are inflamed gum tissue and tooth sensitivity. If caught early enough, gingivitis can be treated and reversed. However, late stages will only be managed with regular deep cleanings. Gum recession may also be caused by brushing too hard. To prevent this, change to a soft-bristled brush and use a sensitive paste.