Why Do I Have Sensitive Teeth?

Sensitive teeth, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, is a common dental issue. It can make everyday activities like eating, drinking and even brushing your teeth uncomfortable. Our orthodontists at Village Orthodontics are here to explain why some people have sensitive teeth, and what can be done to reduce the sensitivity. 

Why Have My Teeth Suddenly Become So Sensitive?

There are many reasons you might have sensitive teeth all of a sudden, but some of the most common are cavities, gum recession, cracked or chipped teeth and misaligned teeth.

Cavities: If you're wondering 'why are my teeth are so sensitive to cold?' a cavity may be to blame. Cavities are caused by bacteria that produce acid, eroding your tooth's enamel. This can cause tooth sensitivity because the acid creates tiny holes in the enamel, exposing the nerves inside your tooth.

Gum Recession: Genetic predisposition and periodontal disease are common causes of gum recession. This condition can result in tooth sensitivity as the roots become exposed when the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth. 

Cracked or Chipped Teeth: Chipped or cracked teeth can expose the inner layers of the tooth, which contains nerve endings. This exposure can lead to increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures and sweet or acidic foods. 

Misaligned Teeth: Misaligned teeth can cause excessive pressure on their neighbours. For example, wisdom teeth may erupt against the teeth beside them. This can lead to wear on the enamel, which exposes the inside of your teeth.

What is the Treatment for Sensitive Teeth?

If you have sensitive teeth, treatment will depend on the cause. If you’re experiencing persistent teeth sensitivity or pain, it is important to seek professional dental care. Your dentist will examine your teeth to identify any underlying issues and provide the necessary treatment to alleviate your symptoms. 

For tooth sensitivity caused by normal wear and tear, you can:

Use Desensitizing Toothpaste: Many options are available for toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth, each with its unique formula. It may take some trial and error to find the one that provides the most relief for your sensitivity. Remember to choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride for optimal oral health benefits. 

Avoid Sugary or Acidic Foods: Eating sugary or acidic foods regularly can erode tooth enamel over time, exposing the dentin underneath. This can increase tooth sensitivity and potentially cause discomfort or pain. 

Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene habits by brushing and flossing regularly to ensure all areas of your teeth and mouth are clean. Additionally, schedule regular appointments with your dentist for professional exams, cleanings and fluoride treatments to maintain optimal oral health. 

Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: This will help protect your teeth and gums from damage caused by aggressive brushing techniques.

Avoid Teeth Grinding: Teeth grinding can wear your teeth down, exposing the nerves inside. If you grind your teeth at night, consider getting a mouthguard.

Are There Procedures That Can Help With Sensitive Teeth?

If you still find yourself with sensitive teeth even after following the steps above, some dental procedures can help. These include:

Dental Bonding: Dental bonding can help with tooth sensitivity by covering exposed dentin. The bonding material acts as a barrier to protect the sensitive areas of the tooth from external forces. 

Flouride Varnishes: Fluoride varnishes strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the transmission of pain signals to the nerves. Additionally, they can help protect against cavities and decay by remineralizing weakened areas of the teeth.

Root Canals: Root canals remove the infected or damaged pulp inside the tooth, which can alleviate pain and discomfort. This procedure also helps to strengthen the tooth and prevent further sensitivity issues in the future. 

Orthodontics: Orthodontics can correct misaligned teeth that may be causing excessive pressure on other teeth, leading to sensitivity. By properly aligning the teeth, treatment with methods such as braces or Invisalign can reduce the risk of enamel wear and gum recession.

Has your dentist told you that misaligned teeth is what's causing your tooth sensitivity? If so, contact one of our orthodontists at Village Orthodontics today. We have seven practices across Southern Ontario to better serve you and to help eliminate tooth sensitivity.