Causes of Sensitivity in Teeth

 

Sensitivity in teeth is also known as dentin hypersensitivity. It is described as pain or tightening sensations in teeth when exposed to extreme temperatures such as hot and cold foods.

Teeth sensitivity can be temporary if it is diagnosed early and proper precautions are taken. It can also lead to bigger problems such as cavity and enamel erosion if left unattended.

What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

One prevalent reason for sensitive teeth is enamel erosion. When your enamel is eroded, your tooth is deprived of its natural protective coating, making it vulnerable to sensitivity. The enamel can be damaged due to a multitude of reasons such as:

• Brushing too hard: Many people do not seem to have proper knowledge when it comes to brushing their teeth. Consequently, they end up shedding off their own enamel by brushing it strongly in the wrong way.

• Teeth Grinding: This is common in anxious people. Ground teeth are a consequence of rubbing your upper teeth against your lower teeth. It produces friction and destroys the enamel, eventually leaving the teeth exposed to sensitivity.
• Regular use of alcohol: Alcohol disrupts the flow of saliva in your mouth due to its sugar and acidic content. Saliva is your mouth’s natural response to keep the mouth moist and fight against bacteria. However, when alcohol is consumed in large quantities, the production of saliva slows down. It allows the bacteria to reside in the mouth for longer periods of time.

Apart from enamel erosion, tooth sensitivity can occur due to several reasons, such as:

• GERD, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disorder. Tooth sensitivity is a side effect of this condition. The teeth are also affected and sensitized when the stomach acids are in reverse motion and travel back to the mouth.
• Gum Recession is the stage where the gum of your mouth moves upwards, leaving your tooth exposed to sensitivity and decay.
• Broken teeth: The dentin of your tooth will likely be exposed if a fragment of your tooth breaks. It can develop sensitivity. In this case, you will feel a tightening sensation in that particular tooth rather than all teeth.

Although sensitivity in teeth is very common these days, it is extremely discomforting. It is advised to check with a dentist as soon as possible. Your doctor will help you figure out the solution in an early stage of sensitivity and avoid severe issues in the future.

Want to know more about teeth sensitivity? River Valley Smile Center in Fort Smith, AR is the place to go. Give us a call at 479.646.0706  to book an appointment, or visit our website and check out our Facebook!