Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

If you’re experiencing sudden tooth pain while enjoying an ice cream cone or a hot coffee, then you may have tooth sensitivity. This temporary discomfort can also occur when brushing or flossing your teeth. The underlying cause of tooth sensitivity is the exposure of the dentin, which lies underneath the enamel. A number of factors can cause the dentin to be exposed. Your dentist can figure out what’s going on and develop a customized treatment plan for you.

Oral Hygiene Habits

It’s important to continue brushing and flossing your teeth, even if you experience tooth sensitivity. Neglecting your oral care can make the problem worse. However, dentists strongly recommend brushing with a soft or very soft toothbrush, and using gentle, circular motions. Brushing too aggressively is one possible cause of tooth sensitivity. And if you’ve just eaten something acidic, like marinara sauce, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing. The acidity softens the enamel, which allows the toothbrush to erode it more easily.

Plaque Buildup

Plaque is the sticky substance that forms on the teeth. Everyone gets plaque, but you can prevent it from causing tooth sensitivity. Brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing at least once daily will prevent the excessive formation of plaque, and the hardening of plaque into gum-irritating tartar.

Gum Disease

At first, gum disease causes the gums to become swollen, inflamed, and irritated. If you don’t have a dentist treat it, it can eventually turn into periodontal disease. In this stage, the gums can pull away from the teeth. Gum recession is another possible cause of tooth sensitivity.

Cracked Teeth

A crack in the enamel can expose the dentin. This leaves you susceptible to tooth sensitivity when consuming very cold or hot foods and beverages. Visit an emergency dentist as soon as you can to get the cracked tooth repaired.

Sensitive teeth can be uncomfortable, but the dentists at Park 56 Dental can help! In addition to designing smile restorations in NYC, our team offers preventive and general dentistry services. New and current patients can get in touch at (646) 783-3529.