Do your teeth feel sensitive when you eat and drink, or do you experience sudden, sharp tooth pain? Teeth are naturally sensitive, but they can become too sensitive if a tooth cracks, wears down or has other problems.
As well as feeling uncomfortable, tooth sensitivity can be a sign of a more serious problem that needs treatment, so it’s important to see a dentist. Read this overview of the common causes of tooth sensitivity and ways your dentist can help so you can enjoy eating and drinking free from discomfort.
What makes teeth feel sensitive?
Our teeth are protected by a hard layer of enamel. If this breaks down, the softer dentin layer underneath is exposed, which offers less protection for the sensitive nerve endings inside the tooth. Enamel wears down naturally over time, but accidents and bad habits can accelerate tooth wear and damage. Exposed teeth are more likely to feel uncomfortable or even painful when exposed to stimuli such as heat and cold, as well as sweet or acidic food and drinks.
Common causes of tooth sensitivity
When you visit a dentist, they will aim to find out what’s causing your teeth to feel sensitive by examining your mouth and asking about your daily oral care habits, diet and other risk factors. Some of the common reasons teeth feel sensitive are:
- Rough brushing: Brushing your teeth too quickly and aggressively or using a hard toothbrush can strip away the enamel and irritate the gums.
- Acidic diet: Consuming too much acid in food and drinks can cause the enamel to erode.
- Damaged teeth: Chips, cracks and cavities in teeth can all expose the sensitive inner layers.
- Plaque build-up: Bacteria that build up on the teeth and form plaque and calculus can irritate the gums.
- Pulp infection: If bacteria reach the soft tissues at the centre of the tooth, this can cause pain and sensitivity.
- Gum disease: Infection and inflammation of the gums can cause teeth and gums to feel more sensitive.
- Bruxism: Grinding or clenching your teeth puts them under pressure and can increase wear and the risk of damage.
- Teeth whitening: Some teeth whitening treatments may cause teeth to feel more sensitive afterwards, but this is usually temporary.
What can be done for sensitive teeth?
The good news is that you don’t have to live with sensitive teeth. Depending on what’s causing your teeth to feel sensitive, your dentist may discuss a range of options, including:
- Improving brushing habits: Using a softer toothbrush and brushing more gently
- Dietary changes: Avoiding or limiting acidic food and drinks.
- Dental treatments: Dentists can fill cavities, rebuild worn teeth with resin or crowns, and cover exposed teeth with protective sealants.
- Root canal therapy: If you have an infected tooth, root canal treatment can remove the infection and restore the tooth.
- Bruxism treatments: If you grind or clench your teeth, your dentist may suggest wearing a night guard or other remedies.
- Regular dental visits: Sensitivity can be a recurring problem if you have poor oral health, so it’s recommended to see a dentist twice a year for a check-up and teeth cleaning.
Treatments for sensitive teeth in Brisbane
If you have painful or sensitive teeth, delaying treatment could make the problem worse. Contact our friendly team at Swish Dental to make an appointment at your nearest clinic at a time that’s good for you. You can call us in Everton Park on (07) 3355 1422 or in Mitchelton on (07) 3354 3341, or book online.