Sensitive teeth can be a bothersome and uncomfortable dental issue that affects millions of people worldwide. If you’ve ever experienced a sharp, sudden pain when consuming hot or cold foods and drinks or while brushing your teeth, you may be one of them.
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the underlying dentin, which is filled with tiny nerve endings, becomes exposed due to worn enamel or gum recession.
Fortunately, there are various measures you can take to manage sensitive teeth and find relief from discomfort. In this article, we’ll delve into the causes of tooth sensitivity and explore effective strategies to tackle this common dental concern.
Why Do I Suddenly have Sensitive Teeth?
When you experience sudden twinges or shock-like pain in your teeth, it’s essential to investigate the underlying cause. While tooth sensitivity is a prevalent issue, it’s crucial to identify its specific triggers.
Visiting your dentist for an oral examination and sharing details about when you feel these flashes of pain will help in the evaluation.
Be aware of the following key culprits that could be causing your tooth sensitivity:
Diet
The foods you consume can significantly impact your teeth. Consuming acidic foods can be harmful, leading to tooth sensitivity.
Sports drinks and citrus fruit juices are known contributors to tooth sensitivity and should be consumed with caution.
Chewing On Ice
Chewing ice is a habit that you should seriously consider stopping. This practice can have detrimental effects on your teeth, potentially leading to cracked enamel or gradual erosion over time.
Brushing Too Hard
Harsh brushing methods can exacerbate tooth sensitivity. Hard-bristled brushes can further cause sensitivity. It is important to adopt gentler brushing practices to protect dental health.
Teeth Whitening
The ADA states that tooth sensitivity can occur as a side effect of whitening treatments temporarily. However, it can also arise from the use of overly harsh whitening products or excessive whitening frequency.
To minimize the risk of tooth sensitivity, it is essential to collaborate with your dentist and adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions when using any whitening product.
Tooth Decay
Dental cavities, even if small, have the potential to erode the enamel of the tooth exposing the dentin, leading to sensitivity.
In such instances, opting for a filling or dental crown can be a suitable solution to address the issue.
Recent Dental Work
Following a dental procedure, you might encounter temporary sensitivity, which is expected to improve within a month.
However, if the sensitivity persists, it is important to inform your dentist for further evaluation and appropriate measures.
Sinus Infection
The pressure and inflammation from a sinus infection can cause discomfort in your teeth due to the swelling of the sinuses.
If you experience increased pain in your teeth and head when you lean forward with your head down, it might indicate a possible sinus infection.
Pregnancy
Although pregnancy itself doesn’t directly cause tooth sensitivity, its hormonal changes can impact your gums, potentially leading to discomfort or pain.
Cold Weather
Exposing your teeth to cold air can elicit a sensitive twinge. Dentists may perform sensitivity tests by blowing air on your teeth to assess their sensitivity levels.
Grinding Your Teeth
Stress can have a detrimental impact on your teeth if it leads to teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, which can subsequently cause tooth sensitivity.
The grinding action, often occurring during sleep, may go unnoticed. Unfortunately, teeth grinding can result in various problems, ranging from tooth damage to headaches and even hearing disorders.
Can Tooth Sensitivity Go Away?
In some cases, sensitivity may go away on its own, while in others, it might require intervention and management.
If tooth sensitivity is caused by temporary factors, such as dental procedures or minor enamel erosion, it is more likely to subside naturally.
For instance, after teeth whitening treatments, some individuals may experience heightened sensitivity for a short period. However, as the teeth adjust and the dentin tubules become less exposed, the sensitivity typically diminishes.
Similarly, if enamel erosion is minimal and the individual makes changes to their diet or oral care routine, the sensitivity may gradually improve over time.
On the other hand, if tooth sensitivity is caused by more significant factors, such as gum recession or chronic teeth grinding, it may not resolve without proper management and treatment. Gum recession, once occurred, cannot be reversed on its own.
However, working with a dentist to address the underlying cause and implementing good oral hygiene practices can prevent further recession and alleviate sensitivity.
How do I Stop my Teeth from Being Sensitive?
If you are experiencing discomfort due to sensitive teeth, it is essential to schedule a visit to your dentist. During the dental examination, the dentist can identify or eliminate any potential underlying causes of your tooth sensitivity.
Based on the findings, your dentist may offer the following recommendations:
Use a Desensitizing Toothpaste
Desensitizing toothpaste can be beneficial in blocking pain associated with sensitive teeth after several applications. Various over-the-counter products are available, so ask your dentist for a recommendation tailored to your needs.
Opt for a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush
Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles and adopt gentle brushing techniques to protect your tooth enamel and gums.
Moderate Hot and Cold Foods
Limit the consumption of extremely hot or cold foods to reduce sensitivity triggers.
Regular Dental Visits
Visit your dentist regularly for a permanent solution to severe tooth sensitivity. Your dentist can identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments.
Follow Professional Recommendations
Change your toothbrush and toothpaste as advised by your dentist for optimal oral care.
Consult Your Dentist for Severe Pain
If you experience sharp pain instead of mild discomfort, consult your dentist rather than relying on home remedies.
Use Salt Water Rinse
Rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution during periods of tooth pain and discomfort to soothe the sensitivity.
Avoid Acidic Foods
Minimize or avoid acidic foods throughout your life to protect your enamel from erosion.
Thoroughly Clean Your Teeth
Ensure you clean all parts of your teeth thoroughly during brushing to maintain good oral hygiene.
Root Canal Treatment
In situations where other treatments are not effective and tooth sensitivity causes severe pain, your dentist might recommend a root canal.
This procedure is used to address issues in the tooth’s soft core (dental pulp). Despite its significant nature, a root canal is considered the most successful method for eliminating tooth sensitivity.
Conclusion
Dealing with sensitive teeth can be an uncomfortable experience, but with the right approach, you can find relief and take control of your dental health.
Don’t forget to consult with Dr. Nielsen to identify the underlying cause and receive personalized recommendations for managing sensitive teeth effectively.
With proper care and professional guidance, you can regain your smile and enjoy a pain-free experience while eating and drinking.