What Your Sensitive Teeth May Be Telling You
With the warm weather and summer upon us, frosty treats like ice cream are popular for keeping cool. Does the thought of biting into an ice cream cone make you shiver with dread? If your teeth are bothered by extremely cold and hot temperatures, you may be suffering from tooth sensitivity. If you notice that you have these sensations frequently, your teeth are telling you that there could be a problem with your oral health. Read on to learn more about tooth sensitivity and the oral health problems you might be experiencing.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
If you avoid foods that are extremely hot or cold because they affect your teeth, there is a good chance you are experiencing tooth sensitivity. Your teeth are composed of layers, and when the outer layer of your teeth, known as the enamel, becomes compromised or damaged, it can lead to tooth sensitivity issues. Tooth sensitivity can also be attributed to an incorrect bite. When the bite is not properly aligned, the teeth may be hitting incorrectly and wearing down unevenly. Over time, this can lead to sensitivity issues. Teeth can also be unusually sensitive for a time after certain dental treatments, like a filling, a dental crown, or a root canal. Tooth sensitivity can be caused by:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Cracked or chipped tooth
- Teeth grinding
- Excessive teeth whitening
Ways to Help Tooth Sensitivity
If you are prone to tooth sensitivity, there are some changes you can make to your oral hygiene routine that may help. Be sure you are using a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth. It is important to use gentle motions when brushing your teeth, not vigorous, hard strokes. Brushing too roughly can damage your tooth enamel. We would be happy to demonstrate the proper way to brush your teeth during your next visit. There is also toothpaste available for sensitive teeth.
If you are located in Newmarket, ON and dealing with frequent tooth sensitivity, or it has been some time since your last visit to the office, we recommend calling our team to schedule an appointment. We will be happy to meet with you to evaluate your symptoms and ensure that nothing more serious is occurring. See you soon!
