Have you ever been enjoying a bowl of ice cream only to suddenly experience—zing!—an excruciatingly painful sensation in your teeth? Perhaps you have noticed that your gums have receded, and your teeth just don’t feel as comfortable as they used to. You could have tooth sensitivity. And we get it—sensitive teeth and the resulting tooth…
Have you ever been enjoying a bowl of ice cream only to suddenly experience—zing!—an excruciatingly painful sensation in your teeth? Perhaps you have noticed that your gums have receded, and your teeth just don’t feel as comfortable as they used to. You could have tooth sensitivity. And we get it—sensitive teeth and the resulting tooth pain is no fun.
In this article, your Bedford, TX, family dentist will explain what you need to know about the causes of tooth sensitivity and how you can get some relief. Let’s get started.
Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
Though we mentioned ice cream above, and exposure to extreme cold (or hot) can indeed be a sure way for your sensitivity to flair, it’s important to understand why you are experiencing that pain in the first place. After all, we suspect that eating a bowl of your favorite Rocky Road ice cream hasn’t always been an unenjoyable experience.
Let’s look at the most common causes of tooth sensitivity. This information can help you and your dentist determine what to do to help keep your teeth and gums as happy and healthy as possible.
- Worn Down Enamel: Frequent consumption of acidic foods and beverages can gradually weaken the outer layer of your teeth, exposing the more sensitive layers beneath.
- Gum Recession: When gums pull back, they expose the softer portion of the tooth that isn’t as protected as enamel.
- Clenching or Grinding: Repeated pressure from grinding or clenching can wear down the protective outer layer of teeth, making them more sensitive.
- Tooth Damage: Cracks, chips, or fractures in a tooth can expose the inner structures, leading to discomfort when eating or drinking.
- Recent Dental Work: Fillings, crowns, or whitening treatments can sometimes lead to temporary sensitivity as your teeth adjust.
- Plaque Buildup: When too much plaque accumulates on your teeth, it can contribute to enamel wear and gum irritation.
- Exposed Tooth Roots: Without the natural protection of enamel, the roots of your teeth may react more strongly to hot, cold, or sugary foods.
- Brushing Too Hard: Using too much pressure or a toothbrush with stiff bristles can wear down enamel and contribute to gum recession.
Solutions for Tooth Sensitivity
Now that you know what is causing your tooth sensitivity, let’s talk about what you can do for sensitive teeth relief. After all, we know that a tooth zinger can literally stop you in your tracks and keep you from smiling. Who wants that? We sure don’t.
- Switch to a sensitivity toothpaste. Specially formulated toothpaste can help protect exposed areas and lessen discomfort over time.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. A gentler brush, along with light pressure, can help prevent further enamel wear and gum irritation.
- Be mindful of acidic foods and drinks. Cutting back on citrus, soda, and other acidic items can help protect your teeth from further sensitivity.
- Try fluoride or desensitizing treatments. Professional treatments at your dentist’s office can help strengthen teeth and reduce sensitivity.
- Address underlying dental concerns. Cavities, gum recession, and other issues may contribute to discomfort, so it’s important to visit your dentist for proper care.
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth. A custom-fitted guard can help protect your teeth from damage caused by grinding or clenching.
- Avoid extreme temperatures. If hot or cold foods trigger discomfort, try lukewarm options to lessen sensitivity.
- Stay consistent with oral care. Brushing twice a day and flossing regularly can help keep your teeth and gums in better shape, reducing sensitivity over time.
Preventing Tooth Sensitivity in the First Place
Once you have experienced a handful of zingers, the last thing you want is for it to keep happening. And there is good news for you—there are things you can do to stop sensitivity in the first place. Plus, if you’ve already experienced sensitive teeth, we can help you keep it from getting worse.
In addition to what we shared above, here are our top tips for preventing tooth sensitivity.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps wash away acids and bacteria that can weaken enamel and irritate gums.
- Eat tooth-friendly foods. Dairy products, leafy greens, and nuts contain minerals that help support strong teeth.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks. Cutting back on sugar can help prevent decay and gum issues that contribute to sensitivity.
- Use a mouth guard for sports. If you play contact sports, wearing a mouth guard can help protect your teeth from unexpected impact.
- Rinse after eating acidic foods. If you do enjoy citrus fruits or soda, rinsing your mouth with water afterward can help reduce their impact on your teeth.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups. Routine visits allow your dentist to catch potential concerns early and provide guidance on keeping your teeth strong.
- Address teeth grinding early. If you notice jaw pain or worn-down teeth, talking to your dentist about possible solutions can help prevent long-term damage.
Are you experiencing tooth sensitivity? Contact Davis Family Dental Care today!
Why suffer from tooth pain if you don’t have to? We encourage you to reach out and schedule an appointment with Davis Family Dental Care today. We’re your Bedford, TX, family dentist and we can help you and your teeth feel better. Contact us today.
