Tooth sensitivity can be difficult to deal with, especially when something as simple as drinking cold water can make things worse. Because highly can have many underlying causes, our Troy, MI, dentist will do what’s necessary to find the true issue and administer the treatment best suited to you.
Here are 7 reasons for the onset of sensitive teeth throughout the day and when it’s time to seek professional help.
When to See a Dentist
Mild tooth sensitivity can sometimes be managed with over-the-counter solutions, like desensitizing toothpaste or fluoride treatments.
However, if your sensitivity persists or worsens, it’s time to call our Troy, MI, dental office.
Other warning signs include:
- Sudden tooth pain that doesn’t improve with at-home care.
- Sensitivity localized to a single tooth, which could indicate a cavity or fracture.
- Signs of gum disease, such as swelling, bleeding, or receding gums.
- Sensitivity caused by nighttime grinding, which may require a custom night guard.
A professional dental evaluation by our dentist will help determine the underlying cause of your sensitivity and guide appropriate treatments for sensitive teeth.
1. Brushing Too Hard
While brushing your teeth thoroughly is important for good oral health, brushing too hard can actually cause damage. Using too much force while brushing or using hard-bristled toothbrushes can wear down your enamel. When the enamel is removed, the dentin in your teeth becomes exposed, which causes your teeth to feel sensitive. Brush thoroughly, but gently to avoid experiencing .
2. Eating the Wrong Foods
Eating a balanced diet isn’t just important for your overall health, it’s extremely important for your oral health as well. Consuming too much sugar will cause the bacteria in your mouth to produce acids that can erode your teeth. After a certain amount of exposure to these acids, your teeth will become sensitive as the dentin becomes exposed. Keeping sugar and acidic foods to a minimum will reduce the risk of your teeth becoming sensitive.
3. Grinding & Clenching Your Teeth
Many people unconsciously grind and clench their teeth, especially while they sleep. Nighttime teeth grinding or clenching can wear down your enamel. Just like brushing too hard and eating harmful foods, grinding your teeth can make them more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures over time. Wearing a night guard from our dentist can help prevent the negative effects of grinding your teeth while you sleep.
4. Teeth Whitening
While whitening your teeth may give you a beautiful smile, it may temporarily be too much for your smile. After a whitening procedure, some patients might experience sensitivity, even if they haven’t had issues before. Though this is usually mild and short-lived, it’s still something to take into consideration. To limit sensitivity, keep teeth whitening to a minimum and talk to our dentist about future treatment.
5. Plaque Buildup
Plaque is constantly forming in your mouth, and if it’s not taken care of, it can lead to you . Plaque not only eats away at your teeth but also at your gums, causing sensitivity in both. To reduce plaque buildup, practice good oral hygiene that includes thorough brushing and flossing. We also recommend that you schedule your oral exam and professional teeth cleaning with us at least every 6 months.
6. Cracked or Chipped Teeth
Cracked and chipped teeth can be rather painful and particularly sensitive. When a tooth is cracked or chipped, the sensitive layer of your tooth is exposed, causing you to feel pain and sensitivity. Schedule a visit with our dentist as soon as possible to address the problem before it gets worse.
7. Gum Disease
Gingivitis and periodontitis also cause tooth sensitivity. The gum line often recedes, exposing sensitive tooth roots. The plaque buildup that comes with gum disease can also erode your enamel, exposing the dentin beneath. Be sure to keep up with your oral care routine and see our dentist regularly to reduce your risk of developing gum disease.
Request an Appointment With Us
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, our , can help find the root cause and prescribe a solution. Call Mosaic Dental today at (248) 528-2270 or contact us to schedule an appointment.
This blog post has been updated.
Teeth Whitening