What Your Sensitive Teeth Could Be Telling You
Have you recently found that eating certain temperature foods make you cringe in discomfort? It is not uncommon to feel slight discomfort from time to time when eating extremely cold or hot foods such as ice cream or hot coffee. However, when it becomes routine and happens frequently, this may be a sign that you are dealing with sensitive teeth. Patients often assume sensitive teeth are a normal part of aging and don’t realize that experiencing tooth sensitivity is a warning sign to a number of issues. Continue reading to learn what conditions you might be experiencing.
What is Tooth Sensitivity?
Your teeth are made of various layers. The outer layer, the enamel, is the hardest substance in the body. Although the enamel is extremely hard, it is not indestructible. Once the enamel begins to wear away, leaving the inside of the tooth exposed, it can cause discomfort, otherwise known as sensitivity.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
While many patients deal with sensitive teeth from time to time and there is usually no need for concern, once it starts happening frequently, it can be a warning sign that there might be a larger issue in your mouth. A number of issues can cause tooth sensitivity, such as:
Grinding Your Teeth
Many patients grind or clench their teeth during the day and at night. This common condition can cause the enamel of the teeth to wear away, which can lead to the entire tooth wearing down. It can also cause tooth enamel to crack, resulting in sensitivity issues.
Brushing Too Hard
Some patients feel like they are doing a better job of cleaning their teeth when they use extreme force to brush their teeth. Brushing teeth too hard will only cause the enamel to wear away over time. We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and using gentle strokes to brush your teeth. If you struggle with this, we can help and show the proper way to brush the next time you are in the office.
Eating Highly Acidic or Sugary Foods
Consuming high quantities of acidic foods, such as lemons, or sugary foods, such as candy, can wear away at the enamel and lead to decay. It is best to eat these foods in moderation.
Recent Dental Treatment
One of the side-effects of certain dental treatments is tooth sensitivity. This is often experienced while the tooth is healing and will fade over time. If tooth sensitivity remains, we will need to see you in the office.
If you are experiencing frequent issues with tooth sensitivity, we recommend scheduling an appointment in our office located in Wellington, FL. We can determine if there is an underlying problem and offer treatment suggestions to help you enjoy your favorite hot and cold foods again soon!
