How To Care for Your Sensitive Teeth

Why Are My Teeth So Sensitive?

Tooth sensitivity is a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide. If you experience discomfort or pain when eating hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods, you may have sensitive teeth. This sensitivity can range from mild discomfort to sharp, sudden pain, making it difficult to enjoy your favorite foods and drinks. But what causes this sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity typically occurs when the protective enamel layer of your teeth wears down, exposing the dentin underneath. This dentin contains tiny tubules that lead directly to the nerves, making your teeth more sensitive to external stimuli. When these tubules are exposed, anything from cold air to sugary drinks can trigger pain. While occasional sensitivity may not be a cause for concern, persistent or worsening sensitivity could indicate an underlying dental problem that requires attention.

What Are the Main Causes of Tooth Sensitivity?

Several factors can contribute to sensitive teeth, including:

• Enamel erosion – The enamel on your teeth can wear down due to frequent consumption of acidic foods and beverages, aggressive brushing, or acid reflux. Once enamel is lost, it does not regenerate, making your teeth more vulnerable to sensitivity.
• Gum recession – When gums recede, the softer root surfaces of your teeth become exposed, leading to increased sensitivity. Gum recession can occur due to periodontal disease, aging, or excessive brushing.
• Tooth decay or cavities – Cavities create holes in the enamel, exposing the inner dentin and causing pain and sensitivity.
• Cracked or chipped teeth – A crack or chip in a tooth can expose the sensitive inner layers, allowing bacteria to enter and cause pain or infection.
• Teeth grinding (Bruxism) – Grinding your teeth, especially at night, can wear down enamel over time, making teeth more sensitive. Many people are unaware they grind their teeth until symptoms like jaw pain or increased sensitivity appear.
• Recent dental procedures – Teeth may be temporarily sensitive after fillings, crowns, root canals, or whitening treatments. This type of sensitivity usually subsides within a few weeks.

How Can I Reduce Tooth Sensitivity at Home?

If you have mild tooth sensitivity, you can try these home remedies to help alleviate discomfort and protect your teeth:

1. Use a desensitizing toothpaste – Special toothpastes containing potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride help block pain signals from reaching the nerves.
2. Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush – Using a toothbrush with soft bristles prevents further enamel wear and gum irritation. Gentle brushing techniques are also recommended.
3. Avoid acidic foods and drinks – Limit your consumption of citrus fruits, soda, wine, and other acidic beverages that can erode enamel.
4. Use fluoride mouthwash – Fluoride strengthens enamel, making it more resistant to sensitivity and decay.
5. Try a night guard – If you grind your teeth at night, a custom-made mouthguard can help prevent further enamel damage.
6. Maintain good oral hygiene – Brush and floss regularly using gentle techniques to keep your teeth clean without causing irritation.
7. Rinse with salt water – A saltwater rinse can help reduce inflammation and promote gum health.
8. Avoid extreme temperature changes – Extremely hot or cold foods and drinks can trigger pain in sensitive teeth.

When Should You See a Dentist for Sensitive Teeth?

While home remedies can provide relief for mild sensitivity, some cases require professional intervention. You should schedule a dental visit if:

• Your sensitivity is severe or getting worse over time.
• You experience sharp, persistent pain when biting or chewing.
• Your gums are receding, bleeding, or appear swollen.
• You have persistent bad breath or signs of an infection, such as pus around the gums.
• You notice visible cracks, chips, or dark spots on your teeth.

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious oral health issues, including gum disease, infections, or tooth loss.

What Are the Professional Treatments for Sensitive Teeth?

Depending on the underlying cause of your tooth sensitivity, your dentist may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

• Fluoride treatments – In-office fluoride applications strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.
• Dental bonding – A tooth-colored resin can be applied to cover exposed dentin and reduce discomfort.
• Gum grafts – If gum recession is causing sensitivity, a grafting procedure can restore lost gum tissue and cover exposed roots.
• Desensitizing treatments – Your dentist may apply special desensitizing agents to your teeth for immediate relief.
• Root canals – In severe cases where sensitivity is caused by nerve damage or deep decay, a root canal may be necessary to remove the affected nerve and restore function.

How Can You Prevent Tooth Sensitivity?

Preventing tooth sensitivity starts with good oral care habits. Here are some steps you can take to keep your teeth strong and healthy:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques.
• Floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth.
• Limit acidic and sugary foods that can weaken enamel.
• Drink plenty of water to wash away food particles and neutralize acids.
• Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
• Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night.

By following these tips, you can protect your enamel and reduce the risk of developing sensitivity in the future.

Take Control of Your Oral Health Today

You don’t have to live with the discomfort of sensitive teeth. At Olara Dental in Bellaire, Texas, we offer expert care and personalized treatment plans to help restore your comfort and oral health. Our team is dedicated to diagnosing and treating the root cause of your sensitivity, so you can enjoy a pain-free smile.

If you’re struggling with tooth sensitivity, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Call us today to book an appointment and take the first step toward healthier teeth and gums!