Tooth sensitivity is a common problem affecting up to one-third of the adult population in the United States. Also known as dentin hypersensitivity, tooth sensitivity is more common in women than men and adults under age 45. Recognizing when you have sensitive teeth and what causes the problem is a critical step to get the help you need to feel better.
Common Symptoms of Sensitive Teeth
Tooth pain when eating food or drinking a beverage that is colder or hotter than room temperature is one of the most common signs of tooth sensitivity. Others include:
- Pain when you bite and chew food
- Spontaneous pain without any obvious cause
- Pain when breathing cold air through your mouth
- Sensitivity is in only one tooth or several consecutive teeth
- Pain after using mouthwash containing alcohol
Certain lifestyle factors increase your risk of tooth sensitivity, including the following:
- Consuming a lot of acidic beverages
- Brushing your teeth too hard
- Using bleach on your teeth
- Teeth grinding
- Poor oral hygiene
- Skipping dental check-ups
Maybe you recognize several of these symptoms but are unsure of what to do next. At Ideal Dental, our dentists first determine the cause of your tooth sensitivity and then recommend what you can do to treat it. You may be able to change a few habits and get rid of your tooth pain, or you could need a filling, a dental crown, or root canal. The only way to know for sure is to schedule an appointment at the Ideal Dental location nearest you.
What Causes Teeth to Become Sensitive?
We have already touched on a few causes of teeth sensitivity like over-brushing and erosion of tooth enamel due to drinking acidic beverages. If you cannot pinpoint a certain lifestyle factor, you could have a dental issue such as tooth decay, a cracked tooth, or receding gums. You will need professional treatment if you have tried to alleviate the sensitivity in your teeth to no avail.
Our dental team will inspect your mouth and take X-rays to determine what causes your discomfort and then propose an individualized treatment plan. Once you have received the appropriate treatment such as a cap over a cracked tooth or a filling for a tooth with a cavity, it is important to practice good oral healthcare at home to prevent the problem from recurring.
Home Dental Care Tips
The first thing we typically recommend for patients with sensitive teeth is switching to a toothpaste designed specifically for this problem. Be sure to replace your toothbrush with one that has softer bristles and then use small, circular movements when brushing your teeth. You will also want to limit the consumption of foods and beverages with high acidic content. Lastly, plan to wait at least one hour after eating to brush your teeth to avoid accidentally removing too much tooth enamel.
Schedule an Appointment
Tooth pain may be common, but it is also treatable. Find your local Ideal Dental office today to schedule a visit with our caring team and get relief for your tooth sensitivity.