Don’t Ignore Sensitive Teeth
Have you sworn off coffee, soup and ice cream because they make your teeth hurt? Whether it is just one tooth or a row of teeth, many patients wince in pain when their teeth come in contact with hot or cold temperatures. While teeth sensitivity is a common oral condition, it should never be ignored. Not all causes of sensitive teeth are cause for concern, but it can sometimes point to a more serious dental issue. Addressing sensitivity isn’t just a matter of having ice cream again, it can also mean improving the health of your smile.
When teeth respond in pain to extreme temperatures, it is typically because the inner portion of the tooth (where the nerves reside) is too exposed. This can happen due to a number of reasons. If you have sensitive teeth, it is important to determine the cause so an effective treatment plan can be put in place. Ask yourself the following questions:
Are You Brushing Too Hard?
Aggressive brushing or brushing too frequently can lead to gum recession as well as enamel damage – both of which contribute to sensitivity.
Is Your Oral Care Routine Up to Par?
Your home dental care plan should include brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing and rinsing twice daily. These tasks are important to rinse away harmful plaque and bacteria but to also protect and strengthen your body’s only supply of tooth enamel. When enamel wears thin, it exposes your dentin and leads to sensitivity.
Are Your Gums Receding?
Receding gums aren’t always within your control. Sometimes the gums pull away and shrink down due to the natural aging process or genetics. Regardless of why, gum recession exposes dentin tubules, which lead directly to the nerve branches within the inner portion of your teeth. Receding gums can also be caused by gum disease, so it is important that you seek a professional diagnosis and treatment.
Does Your Diet Contain High Amounts of Acids and Sugar?
Acidic beverages, such as OJ, sports drinks, sodas, wine and coffee, are a leading cause of sensitive teeth. This is because the acidic properties eat away at the enamel within minutes of consuming these drinks. Likewise, sugary snacks and candies can encourage bacteria to grow. When bacteria feeds on sugar-rich food particles, it produces harmful acids that breakdown tooth structure. Sensitive teeth may be a warning sign of decay!
There’s Good News
Thankfully, most people don’t have to live with sensitive teeth. Depending on the culprit to your sensitivity, a number of treatment options can be administered, ranging from special toothpastes and a softer toothbrush to composite bonding and gum graft surgery. If your teeth are responding in pain when you consume hot or cold foods and drinks, please let us know. Our team at Laguna West Dental can help you regain the comfortable mouth you deserve!