9 Factors that Lead to Sensitive Teeth
By Space Coast Daily // July 22, 2022
Is that you wincing in the mirror while brushing your teeth? Do you turn down an offer for an ice cream fearing the intense discomfort of teeth?
If you answered a “yes” to these questions, you might be on the verge of encountering a major dental problem: Sensitive Teeth.
Tooth sensitivity is usually caused due to enamel erosion. Unfortunately, eroded tooth enamel cannot be restored. Since there is no permanent cure for teeth sensitivity, prevention is your best option.
Let’s look at the most common and easily preventable causes of tooth sensitivity.
Brushing Teeth Vigorously
If you’re in the habit of brushing your teeth with much force, you need to stop right away. Brushing with excessive force is one of the most common causes of enamel erosion. Be gentle with your movements, and use proper brushing techniques for a thorough cleaning.
Teeth Whitening
Whitening toothpaste and teeth whitening products can also lead to sensitive teeth. Most of these products contain chemicals that can irritate sensitive teeth. If you want to get your teeth whitened, choose a brand like Smile Brilliant that caters to whitening for sensitive teeth.
Consuming Acidic Foods
If you cut down your consumption of acidic food, you will notice a remarkable difference in your tooth sensitivity. Acidic foods and beverages like pickles, coffee, cola, etc. can erode the protective tooth enamel and cause discomfort.
Teeth Grinding
Many people suffer from involuntary teeth grinding, usually in their sleep. The medical term for this disorder is Bruxism. Teeth night guard is an easy fix for Bruxism. If you use a teeth night guard you can easily avoid the damage to your teeth due to grinding.
Poor Dental Hygiene
Some people don’t give much importance to dental hygiene. Flossing and brushing twice a day is necessary for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. If you ignore routine care, plaque can build up on your teeth and cause cavities. Also, make sure to visit the dentist once every six months for a complete dental checkup.
Broken Teeth
Maybe you’re among those who couldn’t care less about a broken or chipped tooth. But did you know that your broken tooth can leave the dentin or dental nerves exposed? Dentin is the permeable layer of the tooth lying underneath the enamel. Exposed dentin or dental nerves can cause tooth hypersensitivity.
If you have a broken tooth, get it fixed by the dentist as soon as possible.
Gum Issues
It’s not just the teeth, your gums also suffer the direct impact of poor oral hygiene. The buildup of bad bacteria can cause gum disease or gingivitis which can cause major discomfort to your teeth.
Receding gums is another common cause of sensitive teeth. This problem is usually associated with aging. Following a strict dental care routine and rinsing with warm water and salt can cause some relief from sensitivity due to receding gums.
Dry Mouth
Dehydration is an easily overlooked issue when it comes to dental care. You may experience a lack of saliva or dry mouth if you consume too much alcohol or caffeine. Some medications can also lead to dental dehydration.
A simple remedy is to keep up your daily intake of water and fluids. Of course, you need to gradually cut down your alcohol and caffeine consumption. You can also use a fluoride mouthwash to rehydrate your teeth.
Consider these factors and take as many precautions as you can for the sake of your teeth. If you suffer from hypersensitivity and too much pain or discomfort, don’t put off the dentist visit for the next month or week.