Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for Sensitive Teeth

Imagine saying no to your favorite ice cream at a dinner party. Or not being able to try the local delicacies while traveling just because they hurt your sensitive teeth. 1 in 8 adults report that tooth sensitivity causes inconveniences that hinder their simple joys like having ice cream or a hot cup of coffee.

The experts at Hayes Dental are here to help you regain control over tooth sensitivity. Along with some of the best dentists in Bangalore, we are here to educate you on the symptoms, causes, and treatment options of which you should be aware.

What is Tooth Sensitivity and Why does it happen

Tooth Sensitivity is the sharp shooting pain and discomfort one feels when exposed to certain stimuli like hot and cold foods. This happens when the external hard, protective layer of the tooth called the “Enamel” gets destroyed thereby leaving the porous layer underneath called “Dentin”, vulnerable. The Dentin layer is connected to the innermost nerves and soft pulp tissues in the center of the teeth. Besides Enamel erosion, Dentin can also be exposed at the base of your gum line due to gum recession. This is why we experience shooting pains while drinking hot or cold foods due to dentin and nerve exposure. 

Do I have Teeth Sensitivity? What Symptoms to look out for?

You may have sensitive teeth if you experience sharp and shooting pain to these triggers below:

• After eating hot and cold foods or drinks: You may be uncomfortable with extreme temperature foods or even mildly hot or cold foods. 
• After eating sweet or acidic foods and drinks: Foods like sodas and chocolates, etc can increase the acidic production in the saliva. This further erodes the enamel and exposes the dentin nerves. 
• Brushing your teeth too hard: This could be caused by over-brushing with excessive force for too long or using a hard-bristled toothbrush. Even using oral hygiene products with abrasive materials could cause erosion of enamel.
• While inhaling cold air: Either during winter or with air conditioning you may experience a sharp pain.
• Sharp pain near the gum line: This could be pain caused by a receding gum line, thereby exposing the nerves of the teeth.
• Visual change in teeth or gums: Along with pain you may notice certain changes like discolorations or cracks in the sensitive tooth or inflammation  and redness near the gum line. This could be further indication that maybe there is a deeper, more serious oral issue you should deal with.
• Recent dental procedures: It is normal to experience a certain amount of teeth sensitivity during certain dental procedures like teeth whitening, root canals, etc. But if this pain persists in intensity and duration then it’s time to notify your dentist for advice.

What is the diagnosis process for tooth sensitivity like?

Your dentist will start by asking you for details about your symptoms. Right from the specific triggers you face, to the intensity and duration of pain, and which teeth in particular cause the pain.

It is also helpful to share additional information about any recent changes that may have caused this. Whether it is you introducing a new unique dental product to your oral hygiene routine or you experiencing an accident recently that may have resulted in you hurting your tooth. Make sure to remember and share such vital information. After this, the dentist will then proceed to visually inspect your teeth to look for signs of cavities, fractures, enamel erosion, or gum disease. They may even take X-rays if necessary.

Causes and Treatment of Tooth Sensitivity

Genetics can have a role in making people more prone to tooth sensitivity due to naturally thin enamel that erodes easily. Here are a few more common causes:

• Bad oral hygiene : Neglecting your regular oral routine over a long period could make your teeth and gums vulnerable. In addition, using harsh oral products or hard toothbrushes with aggressive brushing could also cause enamel erosion. 

  Treatment : Switch to a toothbrush with softer bristles, a good toothpaste for sensitive teeth, along with alcohol-free mouthwash. Also, be mindful to brush more gently.

• Grinding Teeth (Bruxism) : Some people may have this habit of grinding their teeth during sleep, or when anxious, causing the teeth to weaken.

  Treatment : Try training yourself to fix this habit along with wearing a mouth guard during sleep.

• Tobacco and Bad Diet : These bad habits are often a leading and lasting cause of tooth damage, even though it might be a gradual process. 

  Treatment : Care must be taken to prioritize a healthier lifestyle for the health of your teeth and general body.

• Certain medical conditions : Tooth sensitivity could also be an indirect result of certain health issues like acid reflux and Bulimia. Since your teeth repeatedly get exposed to acid, this causes your tooth enamel to erode over time. 

  Treatment : It is essential to seek professional help and deal with the underlying issues for the sake of your teeth and general well-being.

When do I visit my doctor?

If you notice persistent pain or discomfort that won’t go away with over-the-counter medication, then maybe it’s time to see a professional and get it checked. Moreover, if this pain keeps hindering daily life activities, it’s practical to get professional treatment. Sometimes this persistent pain could even be an indication of a serious underlying issue like a fractured tooth, or gum disease.

At Hayes Dental we believe that prevention is better than cure, which is why we always look out for signs of any serious dental issues and help you avoid them early on. If you are in search of clinics for dental treatment in Bangalore that offer international standard dental care then look no further. We offer comprehensive treatment with modern technology and minimally invasive methods, all provided within a calm and stress-free environment. 

Hurry up and treat your tooth sensitivity by booking your expert consultation on our website today!