Tooth Sensitivity: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Tooth sensitivity is also called dentin hypersensitivity. It is a common dental problem that many people experience at some point in their lives. This condition can cause different levels of discomfort and may affect overall oral health and quality of life. Knowing the causes, symptoms, and treatments for tooth sensitivity is important for keeping your mouth healthy.

Tooth Sensitivity Explained!

Tooth sensitivity happens when the soft layer of the tooth, called dentin, gets exposed. Dentin is the sensitive part that lies beneath the hard outer layer of enamel. When it is exposed, you might feel discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods.  

Sensitivity can vary. Some people feel just mild discomfort, while others might experience sharp pain.

Tooth sensitivity can greatly affect your daily life. It may be impacting everything from what you eat to how you socialize. If you have sensitivity, you might avoid certain foods or drinks, which can limit your diet. This restriction can affect your overall nutrition and quality of life. Understanding what causes tooth sensitivity is key to managing it effectively.

Causes of Tooth Sensitivity You Need to Know

There are several reasons why tooth sensitivity happens, and knowing these causes can help you spot triggers and find the right treatment.

Dentin Exposure

One main reason for tooth sensitivity is when the dentin, the soft layer under the hard enamel, gets exposed. This can happen due to enamel erosion, which can be caused by brushing too hard, eating acidic foods, or drinking acidic beverages. When the enamel wears away, the dentin becomes vulnerable, leading to increased sensitivity. The enamel acts as a protective barrier, and without it, the nerves in the tooth can be affected by outside stimuli.

Gum Recession

Gum recession is another big cause of sensitivity. When gums pull back from the teeth, the roots become exposed. Since the roots don’t have the protective enamel, they are more sensitive to things like temperature changes or pressure. This issue can get worse with periodontal disease, which can lead to more gum loss.

Tooth Decay

Cavities and tooth decay can also make teeth sensitive. As decay gets worse, it can damage the enamel and expose the dentin underneath. This exposure can cause pain when eating or drinking certain things. Regular dental check-ups can help catch decay early, preventing serious damage and sensitivity.

Cracked or Fractured Teeth

Cracks or fractures in teeth can lead to sensitivity as well. These cracks can allow stimuli to reach the nerves in the tooth, causing discomfort. This type of sensitivity is often sharp and can surprise you. Cracked teeth may need prompt attention to avoid more problems, like infection.

Dental Procedures

Some dental treatments, like teeth whitening, fillings, or crowns, can temporarily increase sensitivity. After these procedures, you might feel more sensitivity for a little while as your teeth heal. It’s important to talk to your dentist about any expected sensitivity after treatment so you know what to expect.

Brushing Technique

If you brush too hard or use a hard-bristled toothbrush, it can wear down the enamel over time. This can lead to dentin exposure and increased sensitivity. Dentists usually recommend gentle brushing techniques with soft-bristled toothbrushes to prevent this issue.

Acidic Foods and Beverages

Eating highly acidic foods and drinks, like citrus fruits, soda, and wine, can erode enamel. This erosion can expose the dentin and make teeth more sensitive. It’s wise to be careful about what you eat and drink for your tooth health. After consuming acidic items, rinsing your mouth with water can help neutralize the acids and protect your enamel.

Grinding Teeth

Teeth grinding can wear down enamel and expose the dentin. This often happens during sleep and can lead to increased sensitivity over time. People who grind their teeth may also have jaw pain and headaches, which can complicate their oral health even more.

Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity You Need to Look for

Recognizing the symptoms of tooth sensitivity is important for getting the right treatment. Here are some common signs to look out for.

• Sharp Pain: Many people feel a sharp, sudden pain when they eat or drink hot or cold items. This pain might not last long, but it can be very intense.
• Discomfort with Sweet Foods: Sensitivity can also cause discomfort when eating sweet foods. Sugary items can trigger pain in sensitive teeth.
• Sensitivity to Temperature Changes: People with tooth sensitivity may feel discomfort not just from hot or cold foods, but also from cold air. Moving from a warm environment to a cold one can bring on painful feelings.
• Pain While Brushing or Flossing: Some individuals may experience pain or discomfort while brushing or flossing their teeth. This sensitivity can make it hard to keep up with good oral hygiene.
• Ongoing Sensitivity: Sometimes, sensitivity can last even when you’re not eating or drinking hot or cold items. If you feel discomfort continuously, it could be a sign of a more serious dental problem, like decay or gum recession.

“The Mouth is the Mirror of the Body, Revealing General Health Problems."

– Georges Cuvier

How to Treat Tooth Sensitivity?

If you have mild tooth sensitivity, there are some simple treatments you can try at home.

First, look for toothpaste specifically made for sensitive teeth. These types of toothpaste don’t contain irritating ingredients and may have special ingredients that help reduce discomfort by blocking sensations from reaching the tooth nerve.

When choosing a mouthwash, pick an alcohol-free version. This kind is gentler on sensitive teeth and less likely to cause irritation.

Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing softly can also make a difference. Soft toothbrushes will be labeled as such. So, you must look for that when you shop.

Remember, it usually takes several uses of these products before you notice a difference, and you should start to see improvement within a week.