Got Sensitive Teeth? Learn About Common Causes and Solutions

If you have sensitive teeth, you know how uncomfortable it can be to enjoy a bite of ice cream or your morning coffee. Both hot and cold foods can make shoot pain through your mouth. 

Well, good news: if you’re fed up with sensitive teeth, the Preva Dental team can help. 

Take a moment as Prathima Rasamsetty, DDS, explains the common causes of sensitive teeth and what you can do to find relief.

Common causes of sensitive teeth

There isn’t just one cause of sensitive teeth. The following conditions can all contribute to increased tooth sensitivity: 

Enamel erosion

Enamel — the  protective outer layer of your teeth — is hard, but it isn’t impenetrable. You can inadvertently contribute to enamel erosion if you:

• Consume high levels of acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus and soda
• Brush your teeth with a hard-bristled brush or brush too aggressively
• Don’t brush and floss every day
• Grind your teeth at night (bruxism)

When your enamel wears away, the soft inner portion of your tooth (tooth pulp) is exposed, which can lead to increased sensitivity. 

Gum recession

Gum recession occurs when your gum tissue pulls back from your tooth roots and exposes them — they’re more sensitive than the crown (visible part of your tooth). This can be caused by periodontitis (gum disease), aggressive brushing, or aging.

Tooth decay

Cavities create holes in your teeth, and as decay spreads, it can contribute to heat/cold sensitivity, a toothache, or a sharp pain when you bite down.

Cracks and chips

Like cavities, cracks and chips can also expose your tooth pulp. Deep cracks can also provide an opening for bacteria to enter your tooth and cause an infection. 

If you crack or chip your tooth, give us a call. Preva Dental is equipped to handle dental emergencies like these.

Side effects of whitening products

Some people experience temporary sensitivity after using teeth whitening products. This is usually due to the chemicals used in the whitening process (some form of peroxide), which can penetrate your enamel and reach the nerves.

At-home products cause sensitivity if the products touch your gums. To compound matters, at-home treatments take longer to whiten your teeth, so, even though the concentration is lower than products used in-office, you’re exposed to more whitening products over the course of your at-home treatment.

If you want a brighter smile, you’re not out of options. Here at Preva Dental, Dr. Rasamsetty takes extra precautions and covers your gums to reduce tooth sensitivity during professional whitening treatments.

Plus, professional whitening treatments can be completed in one appointment, so you’re exposed to less of the bleaching products. 

Recent dental work

Sensitivity can occur after dental procedures like fillings, crowns, or root canals. This is typically temporary and should subside as you recover.

Solutions for tooth sensitivity

The best solution for tooth sensitivity depends on what's causing it. Dr. Rasamsetty may recommend: 

Desensitizing toothpaste

Desensitizing toothpaste can help block the pain associated with sensitive teeth. Look for products containing potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride, and use them as directed for the best results.

Tip: look for toothpaste that features the American Dental Association's Seal of Acceptance.

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush

You might be tempted to grab a hard-bristled toothbrush, but harder bristles and aggressive brushing don’t clean the teeth better and actually can harm them.

Instead, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently in circular motions to avoid further enamel erosion and gum recession. 

Replace your toothbrush every three months, if you’ve been sick recently, or if the bristles show signs of wear. Some toothbrushes feature color indicators to remind you that it’s time to change your brush.

Avoid acidic foods

Limit your intake of acidic foods, sugary foods, and acidic beverages, such as citrus fruits, soda, and wine, for the sake of your enamel. 

If you indulge in acidic foods — lemons, for instance, provide several health benefits — rinse your mouth with water afterward. But wait at least 30 minutes after eating citrus fruits before brushing your teeth.

Wear a mouthguard

If you grind your teeth at night, try a custom mouthguard to protect your enamel from further wear and reduce sensitivity.

Repair a damaged tooth

The best way to combat tooth sensitivity is to treat the underlying cause. For example, if you have a cavity, restorative dentistry halts the spread of decay and stops your sensitivity, so you can say goodbye to tooth pain. 

Concerned about tooth sensitivity? We can help!

Don’t try to power through tooth sensitivity on your own when there are solutions available. When you visit our San Antonio, Texas, office,  Dr. Rasamsetty examines your teeth, reviews X-rays (to spot any potential cavities), and formulates a plan. 

Whether you need a filling, a mouthguard, or gum disease treatment, Preva Dental has everything you need under one roof.

Give us a call at 210-791-7826, or click here to book your appointment.