Sensitive teeth: the symptoms & causes

Sensitive teeth: the symptoms & causes

Tooth sensitivity is common. It affects many people. It’s thought that around 50% of people suffer from sensitive teeth at some point.

That sudden pain when enjoying a hot cuppa, or when biting into something cold, is not something to ignore.

And while it may come and go, tooth sensitivity can be a sign of an issue that needs attention. Let’s find out more.

Symptoms of sensitive teeth

If you have sensitive teeth, you’ll typically feel a sudden, sharp pain or discomfort. This usually happens when:

• You eat or drink something hot, cold, sweet or acidic.
• You brush or floss your teeth.
• Cold air hits your teeth.

The pain usually comes and goes without warning. The discomfort might be mild or strong. It can affect one tooth or several. Sound familiar? Speak to a dentist and find out the cause.

Causes of sensitive teeth

There are several causes of sensitive teeth:

Enamel wear

The hard outer layer of your teeth – enamel – can wear down, and the nerves underneath can become exposed.

Enamel erodes for several reasons:

• Using a toothbrush that’s too firm.
• Consuming foods and drinks that are acidic.
• Brushing too hard.

Gum recession

Your gums help protect the roots of your teeth. If they start to pull away (a condition called gum recession), the exposed roots can become sensitive to temperature and touch.

Teeth grinding (bruxism)

Grinding or clenching your teeth is common, especially at night. Doing it can wear your enamel down. Over time, this makes your teeth more vulnerable to sensitivity and damage.

Dental issues

Cracks. Chips. Tooth decay. Worn fillings. These are all known causes of sensitive teeth. This is because these issues can expose the inner part of the tooth. This can cause pain and discomfort, and these problems often require dental treatment to fix.

Recent Dental Treatment

Teeth whitening, fillings or even cleanings can temporarily make teeth feel more sensitive. It usually settles after a few days. If it doesn’t, it’s worth checking with your dentist.

Sensitive teeth treatment with Ringway Dental

There are treatments for sensitive teeth. Ringway Dental offers a range of treatments to help relieve discomfort and protect your smile.

Depending on the cause, there are several treatments:

• High-fluoride treatments to strengthen your enamel.
• Professional hygiene appointments to remove plaque and tartar.
• In more serious cases, a root canal to treat underlying issues.

Our team will assess your symptoms and create a tailored plan to get you feeling comfortable again.

READ MORE: How to Care for Sensitive Teeth

Book an appointment today and let us get to the root of your sensitivity, so you can enjoy eating, drinking and smiling without worry.

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