Sensitive Teeth Causes: What are the Reasons for Sensitive Teeth?

​How does it feel to be God's beloved kid for people who simply bite into their preferred ice cream without feeling any discomfort in their teeth? 

For the rest of us, dental sensitivity is a daily struggle that affects even the most simple pleasures.

Daily tasks like drinking tea or a cold beverage, or even brushing your teeth vigorously, can throw you into a world of discomfort. 

We understand your agony, which is why we're here to assist you in understanding what's causing it and how to alleviate the tingling sensation and pain. 

But, before we get into what causes tooth sensitivity, let us first define it.​

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity

​Sensitivity in teeth is a frequent condition in which nerves are easily stimulated by specific external stimuli. 

This causes dental pain or discomfort in one or more teeth. Sensitive teeth symptoms typically include a sharp, shooting pain. It makes drinking or eating certain foods uncomfortable. 

Sensitive teeth can be remedied by seeing a dentist and taking certain precautions on your own. Hot and cold, sweet or spicy meals can all cause dental sensitivity.​

Dental Enamel Erosion: The Primary Culprit

Dental enamel degradation is one of the most common reasons for tooth sensitivity. 

Enamel erosion occurs when the hard outer layer of tooth enamel wears away gradually as a result of causes such as acidic foods and beverages, forceful brushing, and acid reflux. 

The underlying dentin is exposed as the enamel thins, causing sensitivity. To reduce enamel erosion, use gentle brushing techniques, avoid abrasive toothpaste, and limit your intake of acidic meals and liquids. 

Regular dental check-ups can also aid in the detection of early indicators of enamel erosion and the provision of prompt therapies.

Tooth Decay and Cavities: A Common Cause of Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity may be caused by tooth decay and cavities. Cavities can develop when oral bacteria in the mouth overgrow and produce acids that attack the tooth enamel.

These cavities expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth, causing discomfort and sensitivity. Tooth decay can be avoided by good oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental examinations. 

Additionally, reducing sugary and acidic food and drink consumption can aid in cavity prevention and reduce tooth sensitivity is also recommended.

Gum Recession: Exposing the Dentin

When the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back, gum recession occurs. 

This exposes the tooth roots and dentin. Gum disease, aggressive brushing, or genetics are just a few known causes of this. 

When the dentin is exposed, it becomes vulnerable to external stimuli, which results in tooth sensitivity.

It's crucial to practice oral hygiene and adopt gentle brushing techniques to avoid gum recession. 

Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoiding excessive force during brushing will help protect the gums.

Brushing too vigorously

Brushing forcefully with a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down tooth enamel. Brushing too hard can also cause gum recession, exposing the base of the tooth and causing sensitivity.

Consuming an acidic or high-sugar diet

Acidic and/or sugary foods and beverages, such as soda, coffee, tomato sauce, candies, refined carbs, and citrus fruits, can erode tooth enamel and expose the dentin.

Making use of an acidic mouthwash

Acidic mouthwashes, like acidic meals, can wear away tooth enamel. Long-term use of an acidic mouthwash (e.g., those containing alcohol or other harsh compounds) can aggravate pre-existing sensitivity.

Teeth grinding

Grinding or clenching your teeth regularly (whether at night or during the day) can gradually wear down tooth enamel, leaving the dentin less protected.

Do you have a habit of grinding your teeth while sleeping? That could be the source of your tooth sensitivity. This is because tooth grinding can gradually wear away the enamel, exposing the dentin layer and making the teeth sensitive.

Gum disease

Another cause of dental sensitivity is gum disease. Inflamed gum tissues tend to peel away from the teeth or recede, exposing the sensitive areas and creating irritation.

Temporary tooth sensitivity

Temporary tooth sensitivity might arise following a dental teeth-whitening treatment. This type of sensitivity usually goes away immediately after the surgery.

Brushing Habits: The Impact on Tooth Sensitivity

While proper oral hygiene is crucial, aggressive brushing techniques can contribute to tooth sensitivity. 

Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with stiff bristles can wear down the tooth enamel, leading to dentin exposure and sensitivity.

It is recommended to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently in a circular motion. 

Using toothpaste specifically formulated for sensitive teeth can help alleviate sensitivity and protect the enamel.

Acidic Foods and Beverages: The Enemy of Enamel

Consumption of highly acidic foods and beverages can erode the tooth enamel over time, contributing to tooth sensitivity. 

Acidic foods and drinks include citrus fruits, carbonated drinks, wine, and certain types of vinegar. 

These substances weaken the enamel, making the teeth more susceptible to sensitivity. To minimize the impact of acidic foods and beverages, it is advisable to rinse the mouth with water after consumption. 

Waiting for at least 30 minutes before brushing the teeth can also prevent further enamel erosion, as brushing immediately after consuming acidic substances can further weaken the enamel.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Wearing Down the Enamel

Bruxism, also referred to as teeth grinding or clenching, is characterized by the habitual and frequent grinding or clenching of teeth, often unconsciously. 

The continual friction and pressure can wear down the tooth enamel, exposing the dentin.

It's important to consult a dentist If bruxism is suspected. To address bruxism and lessen its negative effects on tooth sensitivity, they can provide a customized treatment plan. 

This may involve using a mouth guard or splint to protect the teeth during sleep or stress management techniques to reduce teeth grinding.

Dental Procedures: Temporary Sensitivity

Temporary tooth discomfort or pain can result from some dental procedures, such as teeth whitening, dental fillings, or professional cleanings. 

The manipulation of the tooth structures during the procedure or the exposure of the underlying dentin frequently causes this sensation.

Before getting any dental work done, it's important to communicate with your dentist about any existing tooth sensitivity. 

Dentists can accordingly take precautions to minimize discomfort and offer post-treatment recommendations.

Cracked Teeth: Nerves Under Attack

Another factor contributing to tooth sensitivity is cracked teeth. When a tooth is cracked or fractured, it exposes the nerves within the tooth. 

Due to this sensitivity to temperature changes or biting
"g pressure increases. Cracked teeth might occur due to various reasons, such as teeth grinding, biting on hard objects, or trauma.

If you suspect a cracked tooth, it is essential to seek dental attention promptly. Depending on the severity of the crack, treatment options may include dental bonding, a dental crown, or in severe cases, root canal therapy.

Excessive Plaque and Tartar Buildup: Affecting Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity may be exacerbated by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. If not removed, plaque, which is a sticky film of germs that accumulates on the teeth, can harden into tartar. 

Plaque and tartar accumulation near the gumline can lead to gum disease and gum recession, thereby increasing the risk of tooth sensitivity.

Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene practice, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and scheduling routine dental cleanings, is essential to preventing plaque and tartar buildup. 

Removing plaque and tartar, these steps might lessen the chance of dental discomfort.

What to do if you have Tooth Sensitivity?

Use a sensitising toothpaste: 

Using a sensitising toothpaste is the greatest sensitive teeth cure. Your ordinary toothpaste may not perform as effectively, so use a toothpaste formulated specifically for sensitive teeth. 

Various companies sell toothpaste for this condition, and you can experiment to determine which one works best for you. 

Also, before retiring to bed, apply some sensitising toothpaste along the gum line and the exposed dentin or cementum area. 

It will aid in the reduction of sensitivity. To rub the toothpaste in, use a cotton swab or your fingertip.

Visit the dentist: If the sensitivity gets unbearable, it is important to schedule an appointment with your dentist. 

Your dental care professional will inspect your teeth and do a proper examination to determine the best approach for sensitive teeth therapy.

​Maintain healthy oral hygiene practices: If you have sensitive teeth, you should not disregard your dental care routine. 

Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush, such as those made by Oral-B, to avoid gum loss. 

Floss your teeth thoroughly twice a day to prevent plaque buildup. Avoid acidic meals and beverages, which might aggravate the sensitivity.

Conclusion 

Tooth sensitivity can significantly impact our daily lives, making it essential to understand the various causes and take proactive steps to manage and prevent them. 

By addressing factors such as dental enamel erosion, tooth decay, gum recession, brushing habits, acidic foods, teeth grinding, dental procedures, cracked teeth, and plaque buildup, we can minimize tooth sensitivity and enjoy a comfortable and pain-free dental experience. 

Remember to maintain good oral hygiene practices, seek professional dental care, and communicate any concerns or sensitivities with your dentist. 

By prioritizing dental health and implementing preventive measures, we can maintain strong and healthy teeth while keeping tooth sensitivity at bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What causes sensitive teeth?

A: Several things including dental enamel erosion, tooth decay, gum recession, aggressive brushing techniques, teeth grinding (bruxism), acidic foods and beverages, cracked teeth, and excessive plaque and tartar buildup can lead to sensitive teeth. 

These elements can lead to the exposure of the underlying dentin, becoming visible, exposing the tiny tubules that connect to the tooth nerves and causing tooth sensitivity.

Q: What causes teeth to become sensitive?

A: When the protective layers, such as tooth enamel or cementum, are damaged or worn down, teeth can become sensitive. 

This can occur due to factors like enamel erosion, gum recession, tooth decay, teeth grinding, or exposure to acidic substances. 

Sensitivity can result from the dentin, which protects the dental nerves, becoming exposed.

Q: What deficiency causes sensitive teeth?

A: A deficiency in certain minerals, particularly calcium and vitamin D, can contribute to tooth sensitivity. 

These nutrients are crucial for maintaining strong teeth and healthy enamel. Insufficient levels of calcium or vitamin D can weaken the tooth structure, making the teeth more susceptible to sensitivity.

Q: What causes teeth to become sensitive?

A: Teeth can become sensitive due to various reasons. Some common causes include dental enamel erosion, tooth decay, gum recession, aggressive brushing or brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush, teeth grinding (bruxism), acidic foods and beverages, cracked teeth, and excessive plaque and tartar buildup. 

These factors can expose the underlying dentin or tooth nerves, resulting in tooth sensitivity.

Q: Why does sensitivity occur in teeth?

A: Sensitivity occurs in teeth when the protective layers, such as enamel or cementum, become compromised or worn down. 

This exposes the underlying dentin, which contains microscopic tubules that connect to the tooth nerves. 

When these tubules come into contact with hot, cold, sweet, or acidic stimuli, it can trigger pain or discomfort, leading to tooth sensitivity.

Q: Why do teeth get sensitive?

A: Teeth can become sensitive when the tooth enamel wears down or when the gums recede, exposing the dentin or tooth roots. 

This can occur due to factors such as enamel erosion, tooth decay, gum recession, aggressive brushing, teeth grinding, acidic foods, or dental procedures. 

The exposed dentin allows external stimuli to reach the nerves of the teeth, causing sensitivity.

Q: Is having sensitive teeth bad?

A: Having sensitive teeth is not necessarily bad, but it can be uncomfortable and impact your quality of life. 

It may limit your ability to enjoy certain foods and beverages, and it can cause temporary or occasional pain or discomfort. 

However, sensitivity can often be managed or reduced with proper oral care, lifestyle changes, and dental treatments. 

It is important to address tooth sensitivity to prevent any underlying dental issues from worsening.

Remember, if you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, it is recommended to consult with a dentist to determine the underlying cause and to receive appropriate guidance and treatment options.