What Causes Tooth Sensitivity, and How Can I Fix It?

Have you ever had those moments when you get a sudden zing of pain in your teeth? Most of the time, this happens when you’re eating something hot or cold, or when you’re brushing your teeth. Tooth sensitivity is a common ailment that many people suffer from, but it’s not something you have to constantly deal with. Knowing what causes your sensitive teeth is half the battle, and as you start to investigate, you may find that the solution is easier than you think. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons you may be experiencing tooth sensitivity, and what you can do to fix it.

1. You’ve recently had dental work done. When was the last time you went and saw your dentist to get a cavity filled? If it was recently, you might be experiencing increased sensitivity because of the work your dentist performed on your teeth, even if that work was something as simple as a cleaning. For the most part, this kind of tooth sensitivity will go away on its own after a few days. However, if your teeth continue to hurt, it’s best to schedule a follow up appointment with your dentist.
2. You brush your teeth too hard. You may think it’s crazy, but there is such a thing as brushing too hard or too much. Your teeth have several protective layers that can wear down over time and expose the hollow canals that lead to your teeth’s nerve endings. Brushing too much and too hard can increase the amount of wear and tear on your teeth’s protective layers. A simple solution to this problem is switching to a toothbrush that has softer bristles and brushing gentler overall.
3. You have serious oral health complications. It may be possible that you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity because of untreated oral health complications. These health complications can range from unfilled cavities and excessive plaque to gum disease and cracked teeth. All of these problems can cause increased sensitivity and pain in your teeth, along with tooth loss and other, more complicated problems. If you just can’t get the sensitivity to go away, it might be best to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
4. You eat acidic foods. Constantly eating acidic food can break down your teeth’s enamel quicker, which ends up in exposing nerve endings and causing greater sensitivity. The acidic nature of foods like kiwis, lemons, and grapefruit can definitely cause pain if those nerve endings are already exposed, as well. To avoid sensitivity from acidic foods, simply decrease the amount of them you eat.
5. You grind your teeth. Grinding your teeth may not seem to have an immediate effect on your overall oral health, but over time, it can cause some serious damage. As you grind your teeth, you slowly erode their protective layers, increasing your susceptibility to sensitivity. If you think you won’t be able to stop your grinding, see your dentist, who can fit you for a mouth guard.

Tooth sensitivity doesn’t have to last forever. While there are many causes to this phenomenon, there are also many solutions, many of which your dentist can use to treat you. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, don’t hesitate to schedule your appointment with us today so you can get back to not worrying about your teeth zinging every so often.