Are Sensitive Teeth A Problem?
Do you find that you avoid certain hot or cold foods because they cause discomfort to your teeth? Do you feel uncomfortable when you brush your teeth and rinse using cold water? If you answered yes, then you are dealing with sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity is a common sensation that patients experience from time to time. However, when sensitivity persists, it is a warning sign that you may have an issue with your oral health.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
It is normal for teeth to be more sensitive on occasion. Sensitivity following more involved dental procedures such as fillings, dental crowns, and root canals is very common. Our office will alert patients when they might experience tooth sensitivity issues. However, if you are feeling the effects of sensitive teeth every time you eat or drink something hot or cold, you may have an issue with your tooth enamel. Although tooth enamel, the other covering of your teeth, is the strongest substance in the body, it is not indestructible. When the enamel becomes worn or damaged, the nerves inside the tooth can become slightly exposed. This can also occur if your gums begin to pull away from your teeth, which is a common sign of gum disease. Persistent sensitivity may also be a sign of:
- A cavity in one or more teeth
- Worn teeth due to grinding
- Exposed tooth root
- Infection inside the tooth
- A cracked or chipped tooth
Can I Help Tooth Sensitivity?
If you experience persistent tooth sensitivity, it is important to visit our office as soon as possible. We can make sure you are not experiencing one of the issues mentioned above. In the meantime, one of our first suggestions is to evaluate how you brush your teeth. We suggest using gentle strokes at a 45 degree angle. Brushing too vigorously can damage the enamel on your teeth. It is important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and a toothpaste recommended for sensitive teeth may also be beneficial. If you have any questions on which brushing technique and oral hygiene tools we recommend, we are more than happy to help.
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity and it has become bothersome or you are concerned, please reach out to our office located in Burton, MI to schedule an appointment. We will be happy to meet with you to evaluate your symptoms and ensure that nothing more serious is going on. See you soon!
