If you’ve ever felt sharp pain or dull discomfort in your teeth after taking a sip of icy water or hot tea, you’ve experienced tooth sensitivity. Also known as dentin hypersensitivity, this condition can be mitigated with the help of a dentist. The guide below contains more information about the topic to help you find relief from uncomfortable symptoms.

What to Know About Tooth Sensitivity

What causes it?

Tooth sensitivity occurs when the dentin, a porous tissue inside the tooth, is exposed due to enamel loss or receding gums. Dentin contains direct pathways to nerves, so you can experience pain when they are exposed.

Discomfort may be triggered by certain foods or beverages. It’s most common when people consume hot or cold items, but can be brought on by sweet or acidic foods (like soda and candy), brushing, flossing, and even using mouthwashes that contain alcohol.

What causes enamel loss?

Although it can sometimes be caused by a cavity or chip, enamel loss is often the result of improper oral hygiene. Brushing too hard, using a toothbrush with tough bristles, and regularly consuming acidic ingredients (like vinegar and citrus fruits) wear away at the enamel.

Grinding your teeth at night can also wear down the surface of the teeth. Some people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) experience enamel damage as a result of acid reflux.

What should I do if I experience sensitivity?

First, make an appointment with a dentist to determine the cause. Having a cavity filled, for instance, might eliminate the issue.

If discomfort persists, the dentist may recommend using over-the-counter products designed to treat sensitivity. There are gentle toothpastes and mouthwashes that have desensitizing ingredients to help reduce pain. There are also prescription products available for the same purpose.

How can I prevent it?

Be gentle when caring for your teeth. Ask a dentist to recommend a toothbrush brand with soft bristles, and avoid applying too much pressure on your teeth while you brush.

Avoid acidic foods, including citrus juices, carbonated drinks, and sweets. If you grind your teeth, talk to a dentist about creating a custom mouthguard you can wear at night. 

If you experience dental discomfort, make an appointment at Four Corners Dental Group for professional and friendly care. With locations in Wasilla and Anchorage, AK, they offer a full range of preventive and restorative treatments to address tooth sensitivity, including fillings and dental bonding. Call (907) 258-3384 in Anchorage or (907) 376-2790 in Wasilla, and visit their website to learn more about their preventive services.