10 Biggest Causes of Tooth Sensitivity and Ways to Improve
1. Heavy brushing. Brushing your teeth too vigorously will worn down tooth enamel causing sensitivity. The simplest solution is to switch to a toothbrush with softer bristles and to be gentler when brushing.
2. Consuming acidic foods and beverages causing tooth erosion. Avoid soft and fizzy drinks, they are not doing any good neither to your teeth nor to your general health.
3. Grinding your teeth. Even though tooth enamel is the strongest substance in your body, grinding your teeth can wear down the enamel. By doing so, you expose the dentin, or the middle layer of the tooth, which contains the hollow tubes that lead to your nerves. Talk to your dentist and Westgate Dental about finding a mouth guard that can stop you from grinding.
4. Using tooth-whitening toothpaste. Many manufacturers add tooth-whitening chemicals to their toothpaste formulas, and some people are more sensitive to them than others. If your toothpaste contains whitening agents, consider switching to one that doesn’t.
5. Overusing your mouthwash. Like whitening toothpaste, some over-the-counter mouthwashes and rinses contain alcohol and other chemicals that can make your teeth more sensitive — especially if your dentin is exposed. Instead, try neutral fluoride rinses or simply skip the rinse and be more diligent about flossing and brushing.
6. You’ve got gum disease. Receding gums, which are increasingly common with age (especially if you haven't kept up with your dental health), can cause tooth sensitivity. If gum disease or gingivitis is the problem, your dentist will come up with a plan to treat the underlying disease, and may also suggest a procedure to seal your teeth.
7. You have excessive plaque. The purpose of flossing and brushing is to remove plaque that forms after you eat. An excessive buildup of plaque can cause tooth enamel to wear away. Again, your teeth can become more sensitive as they lose protection provided by the enamel. The solution is to practice good daily dental care and visit your dentist for cleanings every six months — or more frequently if necessary.
8. Your tooth is cracked. A chipped or cracked tooth can cause pain that goes beyond tooth sensitivity. Your dentist at Westgate Dental will need to evaluate your tooth and decide the right course of treatment.
9. You’ve had a dental procedure. It’s common to experience some sensitivity after a root canal, an extraction, or the placement of a crown. If symptoms don’t disappear after a short time, you should schedule another visit to your dentist, as it could be a sign of infection.
10. There is decay around the edges of fillings. With years, fillings can weaken and fracture or leak around the edges. It’s easy for bacteria to accumulate in these tiny crevices, which causes acid build up and enamel breakdown. Be sure to see your dentist if you notice this type of tooth sensitivity, in most cases, fillings can be easily replaced.
Tooth sensitivity is treatable. If your sensitivity is extreme and persists no matter what steps you take, be sure to see your dentist for an evaluation. Only an office visit can determine the most likely cause of your tooth sensitivity and the best solution for your particular situation. We can offer vanish application, recommend tooth mouse and provide different samples of Desensitising Tooth paste. Dental care for High School children are free of charge.
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