Chances are, either you or someone you know has at one point suffered the painfully uncomfortable problem of a sensitive tooth. This usually happens when you are having ice cream or something hot like soup. It could also happen when you take a bite of a sugary dessert or a sour side dish. In some cases, even chilly air can give people a sensitive tooth.
What are the Causes of Tooth Sensitivity?
That shooting pain when you have something either cold or hot, sour or sweet, is from damage to the nerves in your teeth become vulnerable. This happens when the tissue protecting them, called dentin, gets eroded or exposed. These areas then have an unnatural and excessive reaction to hot, cold, sweet or sour food or drinks. One of the causes for this condition is forceful brushing that erodes the gums. Individuals who exert extra pressure while brushing typically are unaware that they could be contributing to a painful dental condition later. Gum diseases can also lead to tooth sensitivity. In certain instances, the gum and dentin could also unfavorably react to certain dental procedures, leading to their erosion.
How to Prevent the Formation of Tooth Sensitivity
One of the surest ways to prevent the formation of sensitive teeth is to use a softer brush. You should also be gentle when you clean the gums. Regular brushing and flossing can play a crucial role in preventing tooth sensitivity by removing plaque and other infection-causing bacteria. In other words, the emphasis should be on keeping your gums healthy.
When Should You Come In and See Us?
When you start feeling tooth sensitivity, our dentists suggest that you don’t dismiss it as an occasional inconvenience. The earlier you visit us and let our dentists examine you, the faster and easier the solution will be.