Do you find yourself dreading to take of bite of hot soup or sip of ice cold water due to sensitive teeth? You’re not alone. Tooth sensitivity is a common problem that can be limiting and even debilitating. So what causes this issue, and is there any way to resolve it?

Causes of Sensitive Teeth

You may think your teeth simply can’t handle a certain temperature, but the root cause of tooth sensitivity is more complicated than temperature alone. Sensitivity is often caused by:

• Decay & Cavities

The outer layer of your tooth, called the enamel, acts like a shield for the rest of your tooth. Enamel that is softened, thinned, and pitted with cavities due to decay exposes your tooth’s vulnerable inner layers, the dentin and pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels and nerve endings that connect to the dentin. If you have early-stage tooth decay or untreated cavities, you may experience pain when you’re consuming hot and cold temperatures because your tooth’s sensitive nerves are less protected.

• Grinding & Injury

If you grind your teeth at night, have a cracked or broken tooth due to mouth trauma, or recently had extensive dental work done, the enamel of your teeth is likely compromised. Damaged enamel can’t adequately protect your tooth’s inner soft tissue from irritation, so you’re likely to feel more sensitivity.

• Acidity

An acidic oral environment dissolves the mineral crystals closely packed together in your enamel, leading to demineralization. Demineralized enamel is weaker and offers less protection from hot and cold temperatures. Your mouth becomes acidic if you eat too much sugar (which becomes food for bad bacteria called plaque) or drink too much alcohol (including using excessive amounts of mouthwash with alcohol).

• Gum Disease

Gums that are irritated, inflamed, and infected begin to recede and separate from your teeth, forming pockets that harbor bacteria. Subsequently, your sensitive tooth roots become exposed, irritated, and vulnerable to decay.

• Brushing Too Hard

Aggressive brushing (especially in a vigorous sawing motion) can thin your enamel and cause gum recession. These both lead to sensitive teeth.

Consult with Our Expert Team About Treatment!

It’s important to schedule an appointment here at Middletown Commons Family Dental if you experience sensitive teeth. Acting now can help prevent further damage to your teeth and gums, as well as allow you to eat and drink your favorite foods and beverages without discomfort. We will determine the cause of your sensitivity and, as necessary, prescribe a nightguard, suggest brushing tips, recommend tooth-healthy dietary choices, or treat any cracks, breaks, cavities, and gum disease.