Sensitive Teeth: Common Causes and Treatments

Sensitive teeth pain is sudden, sharp, and only lasts a few minutes. When teeth get exposed to cold, hot, sweet, or acidic foods, pain occurs. Sensitivity can occur due to various reasons. To learn more about sensitive teeth, please read our article.

Many people in Kodambakkam, Chennai, suffer from sensitive teeth. Sensitive teeth are not only an irritation, but sensitivity can make it challenging for you to eat and drink. This challenge makes many people visit a dental clinic in Kodambakkam, Chennai, to seek treatment.

Sensitive teeth pain is sudden, sharp, and temporary. The pain often occurs when teeth get exposed to cold air or cold, hot, sweet, or acidic foods. If you’re suffering from such pain, you should consult the best dentist in Kodambakkam, Chennai.

If you have sensitive teeth, read our article to know more about some common causes and various treatments.

Common Causes of Sensitive Teeth

Teeth sensitivity can happen to anyone. Exposed roots or eroded enamel often cause teeth sensitivity. However, teeth can get sensitive because of many other reasons as well. We have given some of the most common causes of sensitive teeth below.

Teeth whitening

Several people undertake teeth whitening to remove teeth discoloration and surface stains for a whiter smile. In some people, whitening procedures can also cause teeth sensitivity. Peroxide, one of the main components in several teeth whitening products, can aggravate your teeth’ nerves.

Hard brushing

If you brush hard or use a toothbrush with stiff bristles, they can wear out the enamel on your teeth and cause dentin exposure. Brushing hard can lead to gum recession and root exposure as well. This is the reason many dentists suggest using a soft-bristle toothbrush.

Irregular flossing

Like brushing, flossing is an essential part of your dental hygiene. Flossing prevents plaque formation on your teeth. It also decreases the risks of gum disease and teeth sensitivity.

Demineralization

Demineralization occurs as a result of the reduction of mineral content in your teeth’ enamel. When the enamel begins to break down, teeth get more sensitive. It also causes the plaque to infect the teeth’ vulnerable interior. 

The enamel is not a developing tissue. It cannot be restored or regenerated once it is eroded. Sugary beverages and acidic foods are the leading causes of demineralization. So, it is better to avoid them as much as possible.

Teeth grinding

Do you ever wake-up with a sore jaw or find yourself grinding your teeth? Teeth grinding can wear away your teeth or even crack or chip the teeth. It also causes enamel damage and exposes the dentin’s inner layer. It makes your teeth more susceptible to sensitivity and decay.

Diet

Your diet plays a vital role in your sensitive teeth. Frequently eating acidic foods and drinks, like tea, pickles, tomatoes, and citrus fruits can cause enamel to erode, which increases teeth sensitivity.

Treatments for Sensitive Teeth

A variety of factors can trigger sensitive teeth. But the good news is that we can treat tooth sensitivity through a variety of dental procedures. If you’re suffering from sensitive teeth, your dentist in Kodambakkam, Chennai, can advise you to try one of the remedies listed below.

Dental sealants

Dental sealants are a thin resin coating applied to the teeth by a dentist to help reduce sensitivity. It is essential to remember that dental sealants are a temporary solution, and they will eventually wear off.

Mouth guard

If teeth grinding, also called bruxism, makes your sensitive teeth, your dentist may recommend you to use a mouthguard while sleeping. You can purchase mouth guards that you mould at home.

Your dentist can design your teeth’ mould and make a custom-fitted mouthguard. A mouth guard help decrease sensitive teeth’ pain. It can also eliminate any pain in the jaw joint and relieve headaches.

Fluoride gel

Fluoride gel or varnish is a highly concentrated form of fluoride. Your dentist applies fluoride on your teeth to reduce sensitivity teeth pain, and discomfort. Fluoride gel can help strengthen your dentin and enamel.

Bonding agent

If you get sensitive teeth due to exposed teeth’ roots, then your dentist may recommend using a bonding agent to cover the root’s surface. Your dentist applies the bonding agent on the exposed root to prevent its exposure and reduce your pain.

Root Canal

If the above choices do not work and your sensitive teeth hamper your quality of life, your dentist may recommend a root canal. Your dentist will take out the pulp or soft nerve tissues within your tooth during a root canal session. It will eliminate the pain and discomfort caused by the tooth.

Tooth sensitivity is a common problem that many people face. Now that you know some of the common causes and treatments for sensitive teeth, you can consult with your dentist today to get treated.