What Causes Sensitive Teeth, and What Can Be Done About It?

Sensitive teeth can be quite a hassle, as well as being a significant source of pain. Sensitive teeth occur when the underlying layer of your teeth, which is called the dentin, becomes exposed, which can be linked to receding gum tissue. There are a few different factors that may contribute to sensitive teeth, including:

• Cracked teeth – Broken or cracked teeth can fill with bacteria from plaque buildup, which can enter the pulp and cause inflammation. Eventually, the pulp will become damaged to the point that it can no longer heal itself. In this case, your teeth may become very sensitive to temperature extremes. Chewing on ice is a bad habit that can lead to a network of tiny cracks that can develop into serious problems as time goes on. It is best to treat the cracked or broken teeth before they worsen and cause extreme discomfort.

• Brushing too hard – It is important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush so it does not wear down the enamel on your teeth. Brushing your teeth too hard can also cause the dentin to be exposed and cause recession of the gums, meaning that the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth.

• Acidic foods – Foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles, and tea can cause enamel erosion. After eating foods that have high acidity levels, rinse your teeth.

One simple treatment that may help to reduce tooth sensitivity is using a desensitizing toothpaste. These are designed to help remineralize teeth and can also help protect sensitive nerve endings. When combined with avoiding the contributing factors above, using a desensitizing toothpaste can greatly help to minimize pain and discomfort caused by tooth sensitivity. If you suffer from sensitive teeth, try these tips today!