Dealing with sensitive teeth problems?

Suffering from sensitive teeth? This problem is common among many dental patients, and it can be caused by a number of factors.

Receding gum line
One of the most severe causes of sensitive teeth is receding gum lines. In a healthy mouth, protective gum tissue covers the nerve of each tooth so that it is not exposed to changes in temperature, such as hot food or cold drinks. If this protective tissue starts receding, then the nerves become exposed, which causes heightened sensitivity and pain.

Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening solutions and toothpaste with peroxide-based bleaching solutions may cause tooth sensitivity in some patients. This sensitivity is usually temporary.

Brushing Your Teeth Too Hard
Applying too much pressure with your tooth brush when cleaning your teeth can cause gum lines to recede. It also can strip teeth of enamel, which causes the sensitive underlying layer of your teeth to be aggravated by extreme temperatures or sweet foods in your mouth.

Tooth decay
Tooth decay, such as is found in cavities, can expose a tooth’s root to nearly every item that enters your mouth – hot food, cold drinks, sweet treats and even air that you breathe. This exposure causes teeth sensitivity and discomfort.

Clenching or grinding your teeth
The constant pressure on your teeth – which sometimes happens when asleep – wears away tooth enamel, which makes the nerves in your teeth ultra-sensitive to changes in temperature or various types of foods.

Sometimes recent dental work can also cause teeth sensitivity. Regardless of what the cause might be, it’s important to talk to your dentist any time you have prolonged tooth sensitivity – it’s a great way to keep your mouth healthy and to help troubleshoot more severe problems from developing.

We invite you to set up an appointment with Patrick Toms DMD to discuss any sensitivity you are experiencing.