Why Are My Teeth So Sensitive?
Sensitive teeth can keep your from enjoying certain foods, such as hot coffee and ice cream. If you find yourself cringing each time you bite down, chew, or drink overly hot or cold foods, it may be time to visit the dentist. Knowing the root cause of your tooth sensitivity can rule out serious dental concerns. It will also allow the dentist to recommend solutions or provide the necessary treatment to improve your dental function.
At Docklands Dental Studio, our dentists perform routine dental exams that include carefully reviewing the patient’s teeth and gums in order to deliver treatment tailor-made to meet individualized needs. If you are wondering why your teeth are so sensitive, read on or schedule a consultation today by calling (03) 9021 9487.
You May Have a Cavity
Enamel erosion is one of the key causes of tooth sensitivity. As one of the stronger materials in the body, enamel is designed to not only assist you in effectively breaking down food, but protect the underlying layers of your tooth. When enamel wears thin, it can expose dentin, the more sensitive layer of the tooth. While some enamel demineralization can be treated with special mouthwashes, desensitizing toothpastes, and gentle brushing techniques, if a cavity has developed on the surface of your tooth, you will need a dental filling. A dental filling is designed to remove any unhealthy bacteria from the surface of the tooth and fill the cavity so further damage cannot occur.
Your Gums May Be Receding
Gums are designed to frame teeth to provide beautiful smile symmetry. They are also there to protect teeth. When gums begin to lift away from the base of a tooth and recede, it not only causes the gum line to appear uneven, but exposes the tooth roots. Gum recession is frequently caused by improper brushing techniques or gum disease. While both gum disease and gum recession can be treated with a deep cleaning that involves scaling and root planing, the dentist may recommend implementing certain brushing techniques into your oral hygiene regimen to minimize sensitivity. This will include:
- Purchasing a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush
- Brushing in a circular motion (rather than side-to-side) with gentle pressure for no more than 2 minutes
- Holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle
- Brushing with a desensitizing or antibacterial toothpaste
You May Have a Cracked Tooth
Cracked teeth can occur as a result of age, injury, or even from older amalgam dental fillings. Attending your routine dental cleanings and examinations allows the dentist to recognize even the tiniest fracture in a tooth. If a cracked tooth goes untreated, it will only begin to worsen and cause even greater pain. By capping your tooth with a dental crown, you can enjoy restored dental function.
Tips for Eliminating Dental Sensitivity
If your dental sensitivity is not linked to a cavity, gum recession, gum disease, or a fracture, there are certain tips you can implement into your daily oral hygiene regimen to protect your enamel, including:
- Avoid using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Avoid brushing too aggressively
- Use a desensitizing toothpaste and avoid using one with whitening agents or tartar control
- Decrease your intake of foods and beverages high in acid
Schedule Your Consultation
Docklands Dental Studio is conveniently located in the Victoria Harbour Precinct in Docklands, Melbourne. It is easy to get to us from Southbank via cars (through the city or M1 then Wurundjeri Way) or by foot (20minute walk).
Originally published at Docklands Dental Studio.
