Dentist in Wayland Explains What Causes Tooth Sensitivity

If biting into a popsicle, sipping a hot cup of coffee, or even getting a rush of air in your mouth leaves you saying “ouch,” you’re not alone. Tooth sensitivity is a common complaint for adults of all ages. But what causes it? Sensitivity can result from a number of factors, from what you eat to how hard you brush your teeth. Knowing what causes your tooth sensitivity is the key to stopping it. Your dentist in Wayland is here to help you overcome sensitivity.

So without further ado, let’s get to it — why does tooth sensitivity occur? A tooth’s crown is made up of enamel, which protects the underlying dentin. This soft layer of dentin contains many small tubes, or tubules, which are covered in tiny nerve endings. Tooth sensitivity occurs when the outer layer of tooth enamel is worn down, leaving all those nerve endings exposed. Combine that with exposure to heat, cold, acids, and air, and it just doesn’t feel good.

Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

• Brushing your teeth too aggressively, especially using a hard bristled brush. Hard toothbrushing wears away at the protective layer of enamel that blocks the nerve endings that cause tooth sensitivity.
• Consuming lots of highly acidic foods and beverages, which gradually wears away at the tooth enamel.
• Gum recession — caused by aggressive tooth brushing, gum disease, and other factors — which leaves your tooth root exposed.
• Nighttime teeth grinding, the condition known as bruxism, wears away at the tooth enamel.
• Recent dental treatments, like tooth whitening or a filling. This type of sensitivity is usually mild and temporary.

What to Do About Sensitive Teeth

If you experience significant tooth sensitivity, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with your dentist. If, for example, you stay away from a food you love because it causes too much discomfort, your Wayland dentist can help.

During an appointment for teeth sensitivity, we will discuss what causes the discomfort, and whether or not there’s anything you usually do to make it go away. Determining the cause of the issue will help us put together a plan for effective treatment.

Some common treatments for tooth sensitivity include:

• Fixing a leaking or malfunctioning filling or other dental work
• Gum grafting for recessed gums that leave the tooth’s root exposed
• Treating nighttime teeth grinding with a custom fitted night guard
• Strengthening the tooth enamel with a topical fluoride treatment

Your dentist may also recommend brushing your teeth with an anti sensitivity toothpaste. These formulas contain potassium nitrate, which blocks the tubules that allow for the transmission of pain to the nerve endings. It usually takes a few applications of the toothpaste before it begins working, but many people experience reduced sensitivity using this type of topical treatment.

Talk to Us Today!

If you’re suffering as a result of tooth sensitivity, it’s time for you to seek a professional’s advice. Wayland Dental is here to help you enjoy a happier, healthier smile for life! Request an appointment with your trusted dentist today.