Common Causes of Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive teeth are frustrating because they make it very hard to eat and drink comfortably. It also causes pain that is both sharp and sudden and while the discomfort is temporary, it is irritating and can prevent a person from enjoying their day. The pain normally occurs when the teeth are exposed to either cold or hot air, as well as when a person consumes sweet or acidic foods.

Teeth can become sensitive for a number of different reasons and some of the most common causes are:

1. Brushing too hard. This can wear down your tooth’s enamel, resulting in exposed dentin and sensitive teeth. It can also lead to gum recession and root exposure, which is why most dentists recommend that you use a soft-bristle toothbrush.
2. Not flossing enough. Many people brush their teeth twice a day but do not floss daily and this is very problematic because flossing is equally as important and should be a part of your everyday dental hygiene routine. Flossing regularly will help prevent plaque from building up on your teeth, which will not only reduce the chances of tooth sensitivity but gum disease as well.
3. Teeth whitening. Many people want whiter teeth and turn to these types of treatments to help eliminate surface stains and discoloration. The problem is that a lot of at-home whitening treatments can cause tooth sensitivity because they contain peroxide, which can irritate the tooth nerve. It is always best to visit your dentist for a professional teeth whitening treatment.
4. Grinding your teeth. This will wear down your teeth and can even cause a tooth to crack or chip. Additionally, grinding your teeth will also damage your tooth’s enamel, eventually exposing the inner layer of dentin, which will increase the possibility of tooth sensitivity as well as tooth decay. If you catch yourself grinding your teeth during the day or at night, you must speak to your dentist regarding this matter.
5. Demineralization. This happens when the mineral content in the tooth enamel decreases and as the enamel breaks down, your teeth will become more sensitive. This will make it easier for plaque to accumulate and infect a tooth’s interior, which will be in a vulnerable state. This is a serious issue because enamel is not a growing tissue, so once it’s gone, it cannot be restored. Avoid sugary drinks and acidic foods because these are the main causes of demineralization, so it’s best to stay away.
6. Diet. The foods and drinks you consume will affect your teeth and a poor diet can lead to tooth sensitivity. Acidic foods and drinks will cause enamel to erode and increase your chances of suffering from sensitive teeth, which is why certain types of foods and drinks should not be a part of your regular diet.

There are solutions for sensitive teeth and Slipacoff Dental in Sarnia can help! Whether you need a dental bridge, veneers, dental crowns, invisible braces, teeth implants, or whitening treatments, we do it all, so call Slipacoff Dental to book an appointment today.