Tooth sensitivity is a problem that most people will experience at some stage in life. This common issue causes pain or discomfort when eating hot or cold food and drink. Severity can vary greatly, and in some cases, eating and drinking can be very uncomfortable or painful.
While some assume that having sensitive teeth is just an annoyance, it can be a sign of a more serious dental health problem. This is why it’s important to work with your dentist to identify the cause so you can adjust your oral health routine accordingly.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the causes of sensitive teeth, why they occur, and what can be done to treat the condition.
What Is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, is when you feel a sharp pain in one or several of your teeth when they come into contact with certain stimuli.
This occurs when the hard enamel protecting the tooth wears away, or when the roots of the tooth are exposed and the dentin underneath is uncovered. Dentin contains many tiny tubules that lead directly to the nerve of the tooth, triggering pain when exposed to:
- Sweet food and drink
- Acidic food and drink
- Cold air
- Hot or cold food
- Brushing or flossing
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
There are several different reasons why dentin may become exposed, including:
- Enamel erosion: This is commonly caused by acidic or sugary diets, brushing too hard, using a hard-bristled toothbrush, acid reflux, bulimia, or teeth grinding.
- Gum recession: Gums protect the roots of your teeth, and recession can expose sensitive areas. This may result from gum disease, aggressive brushing, or genetics.
- Cracked or broken teeth: These can expose dentin, leading to pain when biting.
- Cavities: Untreated cavities can compromise the tooth’s protective layer, leading to sensitivity.
- Dental procedures: Treatments like teeth whitening, professional cleaning, orthodontics, fillings, or crowns can temporarily increase sensitivity.
Treatments for Sensitive Teeth
You don’t have to live with tooth sensitivity. Your dentist can recommend appropriate treatments such as:
Fluoride treatment
Topical fluoride rinses, gels, or varnishes help remineralise teeth and reduce sensitivity.
Desensitising toothpastes (professional strength)
Prescription-strength toothpastes contain active ingredients like potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride for longer-lasting relief.
Bonding or sealants
To cover exposed dentin, your dentist may apply a tooth-coloured resin or sealant to block pain signals.
Gum grafting
When gum recession is the cause, a graft can restore gum coverage to protect tooth roots.
Root canal treatment
If sensitivity is due to cracks or infection deep in the tooth, a root canal may be the most effective treatment.
Laser therapy
Laser treatments can seal dentin tubules and reduce hypersensitivity.
Do You Need Help with Sensitive Teeth?
Goldfields Family Dental is a family-owned clinic in Kalgoorlie offering professional care and treatment for tooth sensitivity. Call 08 9000 3514 or contact us online today.