Why So Sensitive? 3 Reasons You May Be Dealing with Tooth Sensitivity

There are a lot of factors that can lead to a toothache, but one of the most common is just run of the mill tooth sensitivity. If you’ve ever dealt with this, then you know that it can be more than a minor nuisance. Read on to learn more and then contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 if you’d like to find out more about your dental health.

What exactly qualifies as tooth sensitivity?

First of all, let’s cover the difference between a tooth ache and tooth sensitivity. When we use the phrase “tooth sensitivity” we are talking about pain or discomfort in one tooth or more, usually that comes on sharply and suddenly. It is most commonly referred to as a shooting pain.

What is the underlying cause of tooth sensitivity?

No matter what’s lead to your tooth sensitivity, it happens because there’s a layer underneath the enamel of your tooth, called your dentin, that covers up your root, which is called the cementum. It is exposed at your gum line because your gums are receding. This area that’s exposed most typically responds to cold or hot and can also respond to foods that are especially spicy or sweet.

3 reasons you may have sensitive teeth

While the above describes what’s going on in your teeth that leads to tooth sensitivity, how did you lose that layer in the first place? There are a few reasons.

• Brushing too hard. If you brush too hard, or you use a toothbrush that’s hard bristled, then you can wear down your enamel over time. This will eventually lead to the exposure of dentin and / or cementum, which will cause sensitive teeth.
• Gum disease. Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease leads to the inflammation of your gums, which causes them to pull away from your teeth, which in turn leaves vulnerable areas of your teeth exposed.
• Grinding your teeth. Grinding your teeth during the day or at night can result in your enamel wearing away and leaving your dentin exposed.

How to treat tooth sensitivity

If you do have an issue with tooth sensitivity, remember that it’s more important than ever to continue with your regular home care routine. You can also get a tooth brush with soft bristles, soft floss, and a toothpaste that’s specifically made for people with sensitive teeth. There are a number of brands out there, and any of them should offer improvement after you’ve been using them for a while.

Of course, we also encourage you to call California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 so that we can treat the underlying problems. For example, gum disease doesn’t go away on its own. There may be things you can do to slow down the growth, and there may be ways you can minimize the pain tooth sensitivity causes, but the only way to truly get it cured for good is to visit your California dentist.