What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

We know how uncomfortable tooth sensitivity can be, whether it’s a sharp pain from sipping coffee or discomfort while brushing. For families aiming to maintain strong dental health, understanding what causes tooth sensitivity and how to treat it is key. This guide explores the common causes of tooth sensitivity, effective treatments, and practical steps to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Let’s dive into solutions that work.

What Are the Main Causes of Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity happens when the dentin, the softer layer beneath your tooth enamel, becomes exposed, causing sharp pain.

Common causes of tooth sensitivity include:

Enamel erosion: Worn enamel from acidic foods and drinks or aggressive brushing exposes dentin.
Receding gums: Gum tissue pulling back, often from periodontal disease, leaves roots vulnerable.
Grinding your teeth: Clenching or grinding wears down enamel over time.
Cavities or cracks: These expose nerves, triggering sensitivity.

Identifying the cause is the first step to finding relief with proper dental care.

How Can Diet and Lifestyle Contribute to Sensitive Teeth?

Your daily habits can play a significant role in tooth sensitivity:

Acidic foods and drinks: Citrus, soda, or sports drinks erode enamel, exposing the roots.
Sugary snacks: These feed bacteria that weaken enamel.
Poor oral hygiene: Skipping brushing or flossing leads to dental plaque buildup and gum tissue damage.
Grinding your teeth: Nighttime grinding stresses enamel, worsening sensitivity.

Choosing tooth-friendly foods and consistent dental care can reduce the risk of sensitivity.

Can Tooth Sensitivity Be a Sign of a Bigger Dental Problem?

Yes, tooth sensitivity can signal deeper issues:

Periodontal disease: Inflamed or receding gums expose sensitive roots.
Cavities: Decay near nerves causes pain.
Cracked teeth: Fractures let bacteria reach dentin, triggering discomfort.
Worn fillings: Old or damaged fillings can expose sensitive areas.

What Toothpastes Are Best for Treating Tooth Sensitivity?

Using toothpaste for sensitive teeth is a simple way to ease discomfort.

Top options include:

Sensodyne Repair & Protect: Contains stannous fluoride to block pain signals and repair enamel.
Colgate Renewal: Uses potassium nitrate to calm nerves and fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel.
Crest Gum & Sensitivity: Targets receding gums and sensitivity with fluoride.

Apply a pea-sized amount with a soft-bristled toothbrush to properly brush twice daily for best results.

Are There Home Remedies for Managing Tooth Sensitivity?

Home remedies can help manage mild tooth sensitivity:

Saltwater rinse: Swish warm water with a teaspoon of salt to soothe gum tissue.
Coconut oil pulling: Swish for 10-15 minutes to remove bacteria and reduce inflammation.
Avoid triggers: Limit acidic foods and drinks like soda or lemons.
Use a straw: This minimizes contact with teeth when drinking acidic beverages.

These remedies complement dental care but don’t replace professional advice for persistent pain.

How Can I Prevent Tooth Sensitivity from Worsening?

Preventing tooth sensitivity from getting worse involves smart habits:

Brush gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid enamel erosion or receding gums.
Limit acidic foods: Cut back on citrus, vinegar, or sodas to protect enamel.
Wear a mouthguard: If grinding your teeth is an issue, a nightguard prevents damage.
Regular dental visits: Cleanings and checkups catch issues early.

These steps promote long-term dental health and reduce discomfort.

Does Brushing Technique Affect Tooth Sensitivity?

Yes, how you brush matters.

Aggressive brushing can harm teeth and gums:

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Hard bristles wear down enamel and irritate gums.
Brush gently: Use small, circular motions for two minutes to avoid enamel erosion.
Don’t overbrush: Brushing more than twice daily can damage gum tissue.

Proper technique, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, protects against sensitivity and supports dental health.

Can Whitening Products Cause or Worsen Tooth Sensitivity?

Whitening products can contribute to tooth sensitivity:

Whitening toothpastes: Abrasives like silica may wear enamel if overused.
Whitening strips or gels: Peroxide can irritate nerves, causing temporary sharp pain.
Professional whitening: While effective, it may increase sensitivity without proper care.

To minimize risk, use toothpaste for sensitive teeth after whitening and consult your dentist for safe dental procedures.

When Should I See a Dentist for Tooth Sensitivity?

See a dentist if tooth sensitivity lasts more than a few days or worsens:

Persistent sharp pain: Could indicate cavities, cracks, or periodontal disease.
Receding gums: May require gum grafting to cover exposed roots.
Sensitivity with swelling or bleeding: Signs of infection needing urgent care.
No improvement with toothpaste for sensitive teeth: A dental procedure like a filling or bonding may be needed.

AZ Family Dental can diagnose the cause and offer tailored dental treatments.

Comprehensive Dental Care at AZ Family Dental

From preventative care to emergency dental procedures and cosmetics, we offer the best the industry has to offer in oral hygiene, diagnostics, and treatments.

Our full spectrum of dental services includes:

Schedule an appointment for you and your family today to get started!