Common Causes Of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a sensation that unfortunately happens to many of us from time to time. This uncomfortable sensation is often felt when eating and drinking foods and beverages that are extremely hot or cold. When tooth sensitivity happens on occasion, it is nothing to cause concern. However, if you regularly experience tooth sensitivity and it is causing you to avoid foods or makes it difficult to clean your teeth properly, it may be alerting you to a problem with your oral health. These are common causes of tooth sensitivity:
Recent Dental Treatments
You may experience tooth sensitivity following certain dental treatments, such as fillings, dental crowns, and root canals. We will explain what to expect so you are not alarmed by the sensation.
Improper Brushing Techniques
If you have a habit of using vigorous strokes when you brush your teeth, you can be causing damage to your tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity issues. Damage can also be caused by toothbrush bristles that are too hard.
Long-Term Use of Teeth Whitening Treatments
Continuous use of teeth whitening products, especially when not provided by our office, can lead to tooth sensitivity. Most over-the-counter teeth whitening products are not customized to fit your needs, the solution is too strong and damages your enamel, causing sensitivity issues.
Receding Gums
When gums pull away from the teeth it can expose the tooth root. The tooth root has no enamel to protect it, so you will experience tooth sensitivity. Receding gums are also one of the signs of gum disease.
Worn/Eroded Enamel
Worn enamel can lead to issues with tooth sensitivity. Worn enamel can be caused by a misaligned bite or clenching and grinding issues. Worn and eroded teeth can also lead to cracked teeth, which can, in turn, cause problems with tooth sensitivity.
If you are located in the Wellington, FL area and are experiencing tooth sensitivity and it is causing extreme discomfort, we recommend contacting our office to schedule an appointment. We want to get to the root of the problem and schedule a treatment as soon as possible.
