Sensitive teeth can make activities, such as chewing, drinking, and eating, uncomfortable and difficult. Worn tooth enamel or exposed roots can cause sharp pain when teeth come in contact with anything hot, cold, sweet, or sour. Fortunately, with proper care of your teeth and routine visits to the dentist, you can keep dental discomfort to a minimum. Below, learn what causes tooth sensitivity and what you can do about it.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Cavities

If you have cavities, chances are they’ve already caused damage to the enamel, which is the crown’s hard protective covering. When left untreated, your teeth develop holes that get bigger over time, further exposing the roots.    

Chipped Tooth or Worn Filling

A fractured tooth or one with a cracked filling reveals the root, which often results in temporary pain. Your dentist can either fill the gap or pull the tooth out if the crack runs deeper than the gum line.  

Receded Gums

Shrinking gums are common in people aged above 40, and it happens because of wear and tear. As the gum pulls back from the teeth, it exposes the roots, making them more sensitive than usual.

Gum Disease

Failure to remove plaque and tartar buildup often leads to gum disease, an infection that weakens the tissue. If left unchecked, it can result in receded gums and uncovered roots.

What Can You Do About It?

Visit Your Dentist

At the first signs of increased sensitivity, it’s vital to speak with your dentist about the condition right away. They will identify the cause and discuss possible treatments, including the application of desensitizing pastes, filling the gaps, a root canal surgery, or a surgical gum graft, for easing the pain.

Brush Correctly 

Brushing with a heavy hand wears out the enamel faster, so you should become more aware of your cleaning habits. Use desensitizing toothpaste to reduce pain. Sometimes, your dentist may prescribe an extra dose of fluoride to strengthen enamel and lessen sensitivity.  

Skip Acidic Foods

Any foods or drinks with high acidic content can weaken your tooth’s hard covering, so reduce consumption whenever possible. However, if you’ve eaten something acidic, drink water and brush your teeth after doing so.

Avoid Grinding Your Teeth

Do you have a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth? If so, consider wearing a splint or mouth guard to minimize the wear on your enamel. This will prevent headaches, help you sleep more soundly through the night, and protect your teeth’s outer layer. 

If you’re suffering from having sensitive teeth, seek help from a trusted dentist at Stacy Lesley DDS. With a clinic in Concord, NC, they offer a range of general and cosmetic dental care services for all ages. They ensure that their patients get the best treatment possible, including cleanings, extractions, and root canals. Call (704) 766-1488 or visit their website for more information.