Understanding Sensitive Teeth: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

Understanding Sensitive Teeth: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

Post by : admin | 13 July 2024

Sensitive teeth can be a real pain, literally. If you find yourself wincing when enjoying hot drinks, cold treats, or even when brushing your teeth, you might be experiencing tooth sensitivity. This common dental issue affects many people and can significantly impact your quality of life. In this blog, we’ll explore the causes, treatments, and preventive measures for sensitive teeth, helping you regain comfort and confidence in your daily activities.

What is Sensitive teeth?

Sensitive teeth is the name given to the condition in which someone experiences pain and discomfort in their teeth as a result of consuming hot or cold food and drink. Sweet or highly acidic foods can also cause sensitive teeth.

Most if not all of us have experienced sensitive teeth at some point in our lives. You have probably drunk a hot cup of tea only to find that it has caused a painful twinge in your teeth.

Sensitive teeth are often caused by hot and cold drinks (and foods) but not everyone experienced the same reaction to the same foods. In other words, one person may find that cold foods such as ice cream trigger this reaction whereas another person only experiences pain when they have hot drinks and foods.

That person then avoids those foods which cause this reaction.

But sensitive teeth can be caused by a blast of cold air entering the mouth. As soon as it does it reaches the teeth it causes that all too familiar pain that is associated with sensitive teeth.

How common is sensitive teeth?

Sensitive teeth are a much more common problem than you think. Many people in the UK suffer from this problem which although is not serious, is something which needs attending to.

The first warning that you may have sensitive teeth is if you experience a sharp pain when you have a hot drink or eat something cold such as an ice cream.

What causes sensitive teeth?

Brushing Too Hard: Aggressive brushing can wear down enamel and expose dentin.
Tooth Decay: Cavities can expose the dentin (the yellowish tissue that makes up the bulk of all teeth under the enamel) and increase sensitivity.
Gum Recession: Gums naturally recede with age, exposing the tooth roots.
Teeth Grinding: Clenching or grinding can wear down enamel (the outer protective layer of the teeth).
Acidic Foods and Drinks: Frequent consumption of acidic items can erode enamel.
Dental Procedures: Some treatments, such as teeth whitening, can cause temporary sensitivity.
Cracked Teeth: Cracks can expose the dentin and even the tooth’s nerve.
Plaque Buildup: Plaque on the root surfaces can cause sensitivity.

Features of sensitive teeth

If you suffer from sensitive teeth then you will experience a pain or twinge which is brief and disappears as quickly. Alternately, you may have pain in your teeth which lasts for several hours.

This pain will vary in its extent and severity. It may be a sharp flash of pain which is painful but not debilitating. But it could also take the form of a throbbing pain which spreads across your jaw.

A word of warning: pain in your teeth and/or jaw can be a sign of an underlying condition such as tooth decay, dental abscess or bruxism (teeth grinding). Visit your dentist to rule out any conditions such as these.

The pain caused by sensitive teeth can affect a single tooth, several teeth or your entire set of teeth

How do sensitive teeth occur?

This occurs if the gums have receded which then exposes the middle layer of the tooth known as the dentin. This layer sits directly beneath the top layer or enamel and consists of a pale yellow calcified material which contains millions of tiny, fluid filled channels. It encloses the soft inner section of the tooth or pulp.

But conditions such as periodontitis cause the gums to recede which expose the dentin. The dentin contains millions of channels which enable hot or cold fluids to pass through them to the nerves within the tooth which then cause pain.

The dentin can also be exposed as a result of tooth decay. If you have a tooth which has become decayed to the extent that the enamel has worn down then this will be the result. The dentin will be exposed which means that the nerves are also exposed.

Treatment Options for Sensitive Teeth

Desensitising Toothpaste: These toothpastes contain compounds that help block sensation from the tooth surface to the nerve. Regular use can reduce sensitivity over time.
Fluoride Gel: Applied by a dentist, fluoride gel strengthens tooth enamel and reduces sensitivity.
Dental Bonding: In cases of exposed root surfaces, your dentist may apply a bonding resin to cover the exposed areas.
Surgical Gum Graft: If gum recession is the cause, a gum graft can cover the exposed roots.
Root Canal Treatment: In severe cases, where other treatments aren’t effective, a root canal can remove the tooth’s nerve, eliminating sensitivity.
Mouthguards: If grinding your teeth is causing enamel wear, a custom mouthguard can protect your teeth.

Preventing Tooth Sensitivity

Proper Brushing Technique: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle strokes to avoid damaging your enamel and gums.
Fluoride Toothpaste: Regular use of fluoride toothpaste can help strengthen enamel.
Avoid Acidic Foods and Drinks: Limit your intake of citrus fruits, soda, and other acidic items. When you do consume them, rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can prevent enamel wear.
Regular Dental Check-Ups: Regular visits to the dentist can help catch issues early and keep your teeth healthy.

Conclusion

Sensitive teeth can be a nuisance, but with the right approach, you can manage and even prevent the discomfort. Understanding the causes and adopting appropriate treatments and preventive measures can significantly improve your dental health. If you’re struggling with tooth sensitivity, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist for personalised advice and treatment options. By taking proactive steps, you can enjoy your favourite foods and drinks without the pain.

If you have sensitive teeth issues, don’t hesitate to contact us – we can help!