Health

Understanding The Causes of Sensitive Teeth!

"Young woman with hypersensitive teeth eating ice lolly, isolated on white background."

Sensitivity in our body does not only limit to the skin, but it can also happen in the teeth. Have you ever felt discomfort or slight pain in your teeth whenever you eat something of extreme temperatures, like a hot soup or ice cream? If yes, then you may be a victim of sensitive teeth. Most Fort Lauderdale Dentistry experts suggest that an appointment with the dentist must be scheduled if the pain prolongs more than 1.5-2 weeks, even after trying the at-home care.

Also known as dentin hypersensitivity, teeth sensitivity can be caused by using hard toothbrushes, brushing around the teeth roughly, knowingly or unknowingly grinding teeth during day or night, and consumption of acidic beverages & food. Many other reasons add up to the condition of teeth sensitivity. Some are mentioned as below:

  • GERD: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder, known as GERD, is diagnosed when acid from the stomach is pushed up to the esophagus. This enables the acid to wear down the teeth and cause sensitivity.
  • Gum recession: This situation erupts when the margin around a gum tissue wears, causing the gum to expose the teeth more. The end line causes sensitivity again.
  • Tooth problems: Tooth problems like decayed, chipped, or crooked teeth expose the inner part of the tooth. Fortunately, sensitivity here will not occur in many teeth, but just that particular tooth. 

Sensitivity: How are they treated?

If you are at a stage of sensitivity that signifies mild levels, it can be treated at home with the following things:

  • Make use of toothbrushes and toothpaste that are made specifically for sensitive teeth. This way, no hard brushing will occur, and the teeth will revive back to normal in very little time.
  • As many people are out for a long time for work and must have a fresh breath at all times, they use mouthwash. If you have sensitive teeth, you must make sure that you are using alcohol-free mouthwashes.
  • Apply sensitive teeth gels that are available easily at grocery & medical stores.

If the above is not helping, you can try treating the medical conditions that cause sensitivity. The state of GERD can be treated by avoiding acidic intake as much as possible. On the other hand, receding gums can be protected by brushing gently and making sure that your oral hygiene is maintained. Similarly, clenching & grinding your teeth can not be in your hands while you are asleep, but you can indeed work on it during the day—set wallpaper in your most used device that reminds you not to clench or grind your teeth.