sensitive teethMany people suffer from tooth sensitivity, and they tend notice it when they eat food that is too hot or cold. This can sometimes be a little painful or uncomfortable so you should see your dentist as soon as possible.  Waiting to see your dental professional means that a small problem could grow into a larger, more invasive issue that needs to be fixed.

What does it mean when your teeth become sensitive?

You may notice that you are sensitive to certain foods and temperatures because your enamel (which protect your teeth) is thinner. You may also notice it if your gums are starting to recede, which exposes the inner part of your teeth. Your enamel is made to protect the nerves in your teeth, so when they are exposed, they are more sensitive.

What causes these problems?

Acidic foods and drinks are the most common way to lose your enamel, though you may also be brushing your teeth too hard. If you overuse whitening products, you may also be wearing your enamel away. If you have bad dental disease with decay and fractures, you may notice high sensitivity.

What can you do about it?

The first thing that you should do is see your dentist because the most common reasons are due to bad dental hygiene. By treating the dental disease, cavities, and fractures, you will be on your way to healthy teeth with little sensitivity. If you have exposed roots, you may need a gum graft to help protect the sensitive inner teeth. After your dental visit, you should be on the way to a healthier mouth!

After you have treated the problem, you might find some relief by using a toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth. Your dentist may also recommend fluoride to help you strengthen the enamel.
If you are suffering from sensitive teeth, it is important to see a dentist as soon as you can. That way, you are back to good oral health and decreased sensitivity!

At Gentle Dental Center, we understand that having sensitive teeth can affect how you go about your daily living.  We don’t want our patients to be uncomfortable and we are available to help you get your teeth back on track.  If you’re feeling twinges from cold drinks or hot food, contact us at (757) 431-1300 to make an appointment with one of our dental providers.