A Pain in the Mouth: How to Manage Your Tooth Sensitivity

November 15, 2010
Category: Dental

If a sip of hot soup or a taste of ice cream causes you to wince, or if brushing and flossing causes pain, you may have a common condition known as sensitive teeth.

According to the Academy of General Dentistry, nearly 45 million Americans experience tooth sensitivity during their lifetime, a condition characterized by tooth discomfort in one or more teeth that is triggered by hot, cold, sweet or sour foods and drinks, or even by breathing cold air. The pain can be sharp, sudden, and shoot deep into the nerve endings of your teeth.

What's causing my tooth sensitivity?
When the tooth's hard enamel that protects your teeth wears down, or gums recede, microscopic tubes located in the dentin (the layer of tooth below the enamel) are exposed. The stimulation of cells within these tubes causes pain when the area is exposed to hot or cold temperatures. Sometimes cavities and cracked teeth are the source of tooth sensitivity, so it's important to discuss the symptoms with your Grove Dental doctor. Untreated tooth decay can lead to more serious problems, such as infection, tooth loss and broken teeth, so it's always important to have a proper diagnosis at the early sign of tooth pain.

Many factors can trigger tooth sensitivity, including:

  • Excessive improper brushing or brushing too hard
  • Gum disease
  • Chipped or cracked teeth
  • Teeth grinding
  • Gum recession
  • Acidic foods and drinks
  • Dental procedures, such as root canal therapy or teeth whitening

To reduce the pain:

  • Brush and floss gently every day
  • Brush with a soft-bristled tooth brush
  • Use sensitive toothpaste
  • Limit consumption of highly acidic foods
  • Avoid teeth grinding or visit Grove Dental for treatment options
  • Visit Grove Dental for routine checkups and cleanings

If your teeth sensitivity is intensified by temperature and touch, especially when the discomfort persists for more than a few days, it's generally best to see a dentist to determine the cause. Typically the discomfort will improve with treatment, allowing you to resume your normal habits. Depending on the cause of your tooth sensitivity, a Grove dentist can make recommendations to relieve your discomfort.

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