Is Tooth Sensitivity Ruining Your Smile? Here’s What You Need to Know!

Recognizing the different types of tooth sensitivity helps in its treatment. Here is more about what tooth sensitivity is all about.

Tooth sensitivity is a very common dental condition, and the pain or discomfort you may feel while:

• Consuming cold or hot foods and beverages
• Exposed to cold air
• Consuming sweet or acidic foods

Six common types and reasons for tooth sensitivity

More often than not, it’s the cause of tooth sensitivity that defines the type. There are altogether six reasons and types of tooth sensitivity.

1. Dentin hypersensitivity:

The most common type and cause for sensitive teeth is exposed dentin. It happens when the tooth’s protective enamel layer wears down and exposes the dentin.

The microscopic tubules that lead to the dentin nerves make the teeth more sensitive to external stimuli. Common triggers for dentin hypersensitivity include sweet or acidic foods, cold or hot temperatures, and excessive brushing or biting.

2. Gum recession

This is where the gum tissue pulls back from the tooth surface. Receding gums expose sensitive areas like tooth root surfaces which the enamel does not protect.

And this recession of the gums can be induced by aging, excessive or aggressive brushing, and gum disease.

3. Enamel erosion

This is the condition where the outer enamel layer wears away to exposé the dentin beneath. There are numerous possible factors contributing to enamel erosion:

• Bulimia
• Acid reflux
• Excessive brushing ‘
• Use of abrasive toothpaste

4. Cracked teeth

Cracked teeth are another leading cause of tooth sensitivity. It is because a cracked tooth can make chewing painful and uncomfortable. It can also get painful when exposed to massive temperature changes. There are various possible reasons for cracked teeth like biting on hard objects, trauma and teeth grinding.

5. Tooth decay

Tooth decay should always be nipped in the bud. Failure to do so leads to the risk of losing your tooth and can make your teeth sensitive. This happens when the decay spreads and reaches the tooth’s inner layers, including the pulp and dentin.

Besides decay, in the long run, can irritate the nerve and make your tooth sensitive to various stimuli.

6. Dental procedures

A few dental procedures may lead to tooth sensitivity. These include teeth whitening, crown placement, and dental fillings. While the sensitivity may quickly recede, you must inform your dentist about it.

Always consult your dentist if you notice the signs of sensitive teeth. Your dentist will evaluate the condition to identify the hidden cases and recommend the right treatment option.

Possible non-invasive treatment options include using desensitizing toothpaste, dental bandings, or sealants, applying fluoride treatments, and treating any hidden dental problems.

In addition to all of this, even practicing good oral hygiene can help. For example, avoiding habits that can lead to enamel erosion or gum recession and using a soft-bristled toothbrush can help.

Regular dental checkups also go a long way in maintaining oral health, where your dentist will promptly address any dental issues.