Have you ever felt a sharp pain in your teeth when sipping a chilled drink or hot coffee? If yes, you’re not alone. While pain caused by cold or hot foods can be a sign of cavities, it’s also a common problem for people with sensitive teeth.
Sensitive teeth might not seem like a problem in the start, but they can be really irritating with the passing of time. To understand the complexities, problems, and symptoms of sensitive teeth, this blog will guide you thoroughly about sensitive teeth.
Understanding Teeth Sensitivity
Individuals with teeth sensitivity frequently encounter pain or uneasiness in their teeth subsequent to consuming certain foods and drinks. Another common factor is the extreme temperature of a particular food or beverage, causing unpleasant sensations.
The pain or discomfort is often sudden and intense but temporary. When the nerve endings in a tooth are exposed and react to hot or cold temperatures, sweet or acidic foods, hot substances, or even air, tooth pain can arise.
Brushing or flossing teeth can also lead to teeth sensitivity in some individuals. Luckily, dentists in Edmonton can address sensitive teeth, and the condition can improve over time. Our dental professionals may recommend specific measures to combat teeth sensitivity.
Why Does Teeth Sensitivity Occur?
Teeth sensitivity often arises when the protective layers of the tooth, such as enamel and cementum, wear down, leading to the exposure of the dentin. Dentin contains microscopic tubules that connect to the nerves inside the tooth, causing pain sensations. Gum recession can also contribute to dentin exposure.
Several factors can contribute to sensitive teeth, including.
- Plaque accumulation
- Consumption of acidic foods
- Teeth clenching or grinding, leading to enamel erosion.
- Dental procedures like professional cleanings, whitening treatments, crown replacement, and root planing. The pain usually subsides within 4-6 weeks.
- Prolonged use of mouthwash containing acids exacerbates tooth sensitivity. Opting for neutral fluoride mouthwashes is advisable.
- Cracked teeth can harbour bacteria due to plaque, potentially causing inflammation of the tooth pulp, infections, abscesses, and dental emergencies.
- Brushing too vigorously or employing a hard-bristled toothbrush results in enamel wear, gum recession, or dentin exposure.
- Gum recession is often associated with gingivitis and other gum diseases, which expose dentin.
Understanding these factors and taking appropriate measures can help manage and alleviate tooth sensitivity, promoting better oral health.
Why Is It Important To Treat Teeth Sensitivity?
Teeth sensitivity can lead to various dental issues if left unaddressed. Some of the major dental problems that can arise from teeth sensitivity include:
- Tooth Decay: Sensitivity often indicates a loss of protective enamel, cursing tooth decay which can progress, leading to cavities and potential tooth loss.
- Gum Disease: When the gum tissue pulls away from the tooth, it creates pockets where bacteria can accumulate and cause inflammation.
- Cracked Teeth: Teeth sensitivity can result from cracks in the tooth structure. These cracks can worsen over time, potentially leading to more severe fractures or even tooth breakage.
- Dental Abscess: In some cases, tooth sensitivity can indicate an underlying infection, such as an abscess.
When To Get Dental Emergency For Your Teeth Sensitivity?
It’s important to know when your usual teeth sensitivity needs an emergency dental service.
- If you experience intense and ongoing pain in your sensitive teeth, that doesn’t subside.
- If you notice swelling or a pimple-like bump on your gums near the sensitive tooth, it could indicate an abscess.
- If you observe bleeding from your sensitive tooth or notice any unusual discharge.
- If your teeth suddenly become extremely sensitive without any apparent cause, it may indicate an underlying issue that requires prompt assessment by a dentist.
If you face any of these issues, seek emergency dental care immediately.
Bottom Line
Teeth Sensitivity, also known as hypersensitivity, is a teeth disorder that occurs after the damage and disruption of the outer layer of teeth called enamel. These disruptions can cause toothache while having any hot or cold foods and drinks and make your teeth super sensitive.
It’s important to address these issues before they grow into bigger ones. When faced with such issues, find yourself a reliable emergency dentist.
If you are facing any difficulty finding a reliable emergency dentist in Ashton or a nearby place, contact Emerdency, and we will connect you to the most dependable and competent emergency dentist.
