Feeling a Little Sensitive?

Have you ever take a bite of something cold, salty, sweet or tart and experience a sharp pain in the teeth that bit down on the food? This can be a result of tooth sensitivity! Tooth sensitivity can be a cause of several different things, but the most common cause of sensitive teeth is large, or exposed, nerve fibers. There are many ways for nerve fibers in your teeth to be exposed. Exposed nerve fibers can be a result of a receding gum line and has started to reveal the surface of the tooth. Once the surface of the tooth is visible it’s no longer protected by the enamel (a hard, protective outer layer) which means the nerves become more susceptible to sensitivity caused by hot or cold foods.

Young people can also experience tooth sensitivity due to larger nerve fibers. The mouth produces bacteria that are both good and bad. Some bacteria help protect your mouth and body against illness; however, when food, for instance, is left on the teeth for long periods of time “bad” bacteria can build up on the tooth’s surface and cause cavities. Cavities are holes on the tooth’s surface that can often expose nerve fibers and increase tooth sensitivity. Another reason why brushing your teeth after each meal is so important!

Here are a few other causes of toot sensitivity:

Gastric Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD is an illness where frequent vomiting can cause tooth sensitivity. Our stomachs have a higher acidity level than our mouths. When stomach acids are present in the mouth, the outer enamel on the tooth’s surface can deteriorate. Frequent exposure to stomach acid can result in erosion of the tooth’s enamel which exposes nerve fibers and causes tooth sensitivity.

Tooth Whitening: Whitening agents penetrate into the surface of the tooth so that over time the surface of the tooth will appear whiter. The bleaching agents used in tooth whitening delve into the porosities that normally exist in the teeth. These agents can also penetrate into the layers of the teeth containing nerve fibers, which can increase sensitivity. Laser whitening and Zoom! bleaching may also have the same effects.

Crooked Teeth: Teeth that are out of position can cause sensitivity due to pressure from chewing. Orthodontic treatment can help reposition teeth and improve tooth sensitivity.

Gingival Inflammation: Tooth discomfort can be “referred” to the adjacent tooth. Clearing the gingivitis and employing proper flossing and brushing techniques will help lessen tooth sensitivity.

If you experience tooth sensitivity, here are some helpful strategies to help you make your teeth stronger:

1. Next time you visit the dentist or orthodontist be sure to ask about any specialized periodontal procedures available that can provide root coverage. If you have cavities ask your dentist about fillings to block food and bacteria from getting inside the tooth.
2. Fluoride can help strengthen the outer layer of your teeth. Several over-the-counter rinses are available or your doctor can prescribe a fluoride rinse if necessary. Do you drink bottled water? Make the switch to tap water, which has plenty of fluoride.
3. Special toothpastes with fluoride are another over-the-counter option. Sensodyne is a recommended brand that will help with tooth sensitivity.
4. Remember – if you have sensitive teeth, avoid tooth whitening (unless recommended by your doctor)! Teeth whitening can make sensitive teeth even more sensitive.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment please contact our office!