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Sensitive Teeth: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Do you ever feel a jolt of pain when enjoying an ice cream cone or sipping on a hot cup of coffee? You probably have a sensitive tooth, and you are not alone! Tooth sensitivity is a common dental condition. Experts believe that as much as 57 per cent of the population experience this dental condition.

While tooth sensitivity can be very distressing, it is very much treatable. A quick stop at Dentspa can remove all the pain and restore your dental health.

What Is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity, also called dentin hypersensitivity, develops when the enamel that shields the teeth thins or when gum recession happens, exposing the dentin and lowering the protection that the enamel and gums give to the tooth and nerves. Typically, the enamel guards the crown of the tooth, which is visible inside the mouth.

Why is my tooth sensitive all of a sudden? This acute sensitivity is often due to a thin enamel. The enamel is a tooth’s hard outer coating and protective layer. When worn down, teeth become more sensitive and vulnerable to other problems.

Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity usually manifests as a brief, intense ache when the tooth is exposed to an instigating stimulus. It can affect a tooth or several teeth. Typically, the discomfort subsides when the trigger is eliminated. The following are instances of triggers capable of inducing pain in sensitive teeth:

  • Hot food or beverages
  • Cold food or beverages
  • A mild pressure, for example, from a toothbrush.

Can tooth pain resolve itself? Depending on the underlying cause, toothaches may resolve spontaneously. By increasing oral hygiene, avoiding foods with extremely high temperatures, and refraining from chewing near the irritated area, you can help alleviate additional discomfort. Although tooth pain may resolve spontaneously under specific circumstances, it generally necessitates the intervention of a dental professional.

Note: Pain or discomfort that persists after the initial stimulus has been withdrawn may indicate tooth decay. It is critical to consult a dentist to determine the source of the sensitive teeth.

What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

Several conditions can cause you to experience a sensitive tooth. Let us take a look at some of the common ones.

  • Tooth Erosion: This is one of the primary mechanisms of tooth sensitivity. Tooth erosion can result from regularly eating or drinking acidic foods and drinks, exposing the dentin and causing sensitivity.
  • Gum recession: When the gum recedes from a tooth, the tooth root hidden by the cementum becomes visible. Since cementum isn’t as strong as tooth enamel, it wears out more quickly, revealing the dentine and tooth root below.
  • Teeth Grinding: Persistent teeth grinding can wear down the enamel, leading to increased sensitivity.
  • Overzealous brushing: Brushing teeth with excessive force or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can contribute to enamel wear and gum recession, leading to sensitivity.
  • Medical Condition: Some conditions like gastro-oesophageal reflux (GERD) or bulimia nervosa expose the teeth to eroding effects of gastric acid, increasing a person’s likelihood of developing sensitive teeth.
  • Tooth Decay:  Cavities or decay that reach the dentin can cause sensitivity as the decay progresses toward the tooth’s nerve.
  •  Congenital teeth problems: Conditions that influence the teeth during their development, like enamel hypoplasia, can weaken tooth structure.

What happens if sensitive teeth are left untreated? If a sensitive tooth is ignored for too long, it can cause additional dental and health issues, such as gum recession, tooth and enamel erosion, cavities, chronic gum disease, and tooth loss.

Additional Note: Teeth can become sensitive after dental treatment. This is typically only temporary and could last a few days to weeks. It can happen after tooth scaling, cleaning, fillings, crowns, and teeth whitening.

Treatment Options

Depending on the severity and cause of the sensitivity, our dentists may recommend one of several treatment options. They Include;

  • Desensitizing Toothpaste: Our dentists may recommend using a desensitizing toothpaste every time you brush your teeth. This particular toothpaste helps seal the tooth’s inner layer, relieving sensitivity.
  • Fluoride Treatment: Fluoride treatments can help strengthen enamel and lessen tooth sensitivity.
  • Dental Bonding: Bonding is a more permanent solution that involves applying a tooth-colored synthetic resin to exposed, delicate roots. It provides long-term protection against tooth sensitivity.
  • Mouthguards: If your tooth sensitivity is caused by teeth grinding, our dentists can fit you with a special guard to wear while sleeping to prevent your teeth from further harm.

Do I need to see a dentist for my sensitive tooth? Yes, it is best to schedule an appointment with your dentist promptly. At DentSpa, our highly skilled dentists will identify the underlying etiologies and recommend appropriate treatment, including dental procedures or lifestyle adjustments.

Why Choose Dentspa for Your Tooth Sensitivity Treatment?

Choosing where to receive dental implant treatment is crucial, and DentSpa stands out as a premier option for several compelling reasons:

  • Experienced and Qualified Team: Our dental professionals are highly skilled with doctorates and actively contribute to academia in government teaching hospitals and universities, ensuring you receive care from some of the best in the field.
  • Unrivaled Expertise: The collaborative approach of our dentists, periodontists, and prosthodontists means every case is meticulously planned, promising both functional and aesthetic excellence.
  • Guaranteed Satisfaction: We’re committed to the highest standards, promising to meet and exceed your treatment expectations.
  • Special Offer: We believe everyone deserves to feel confident about their smile. That’s why we’re proud to offer competitive prices without compromising on quality, with the cost varying according to the nature of your treatment.

Preventing Tooth Sensitivity

Maintaining a high level of dental hygiene is your best line of defense against tooth sensitivity. Here are some things you can do to optimize your oral health.

  • Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride gel or paste, and floss at least once daily to maintain proper oral hygiene.
  • Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and adopt proper brushing techniques to prevent enamel wear and gum damage.
  • Consider reducing your consumption of sugary and acidic food or beverages.

Is tooth sensitivity always a sign of a dental problem? While tooth sensitivity often indicates an underlying dental issue, it may not always be a severe problem. However, it’s essential to have it evaluated by a dentist to rule out any significant concerns and receive appropriate guidance on managing sensitivity.

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The material contained on this website is offered as information only and not as professional advice. Users should consult their own dental professionals for such advice.