Tooth sensitivity in Newcastle is a common problem. Many people feel momentary discomfort after eating something hot or cold. For others, the sensation can be more painful and long-lasting.
It is important to identify the cause of tooth sensitivity, in case it is due to an untreated dental problem.
What Can Cause Sensitive Teeth?
Some people’s teeth are naturally more sensitive because they have thinner tooth enamel than the average person. Tooth enamel is a hard outer coating that protects teeth. If it becomes thin or worn, it can allow sensations like hot or cold to penetrate the dentin underneath.
Your dentin is much softer than enamel. It consists of many tiny tubules tightly packed together. Dentin protects the tooth nerve in the pulp right in the center, but if the nerve is penetrated, it can cause pain.
Continual Exposure to Acid
Over time, repeated exposures to acid in food and drink can erode tooth enamel. Bacteria in dental plaque also produce acids, causing acid erosion and thinner tooth enamel. Eventually, the enamel can become so thin that holes develop, allowing cavities to form in the dentin underneath.
Age
As you age, your tooth enamel can become worn and thinner. This is also why teeth can darken, as enamel is slightly opaque, masking the darker color of the tooth underneath.
Brushing Teeth Too Hard
If you scrub your teeth too hard, you can literally wear away your tooth enamel. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush can achieve the same effect.
Teeth Grinding and Clenching
A habit called bruxism, where you clench and grind your teeth, can gradually wear down tooth enamel, causing it to chip and crack. Because it’s normally a nocturnal habit, you may be unaware that you clench and grind. One common symptom is waking up with aching teeth or an aching jaw.
Acid Reflux
Many people have acid reflux or GERD, where strong stomach acid washes up into the throat and mouth. This can cause acid erosion, particularly on the back surfaces of teeth.
Getting a Diagnosis for Tooth Sensitivity
If you are concerned that you have sensitive teeth, schedule an appointment with the dentist at West Bowmanville Family Dental. A dental exam will assess whether the problem is caused by untreated cavities or another issue, like bruxism. If necessary, we can provide appropriate dental care.
Treating Tooth Sensitivity Professionally
Various treatments are available for tooth sensitivity in Courtice, depending on the cause. For example, if you have an untreated cavity, then filling it could solve the problem.
Otherwise, we may suggest professional applications of fluoride to help strengthen tooth enamel or prescribe desensitizing agents to help your teeth feel more comfortable.
Bruxism can often be treated successfully with fa custom night splint.
Treating Tooth Sensitivity at Home
At home, there are various things you can do to help your teeth feel more comfortable, including:
- If you haven’t done so already, switch to using a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Don’t brush your teeth too hard. You can always ask us for help and advice on brushing your teeth correctly.
- If you like to use mouthwash, pick a brand that is alcohol free.
- Choose toothpaste specially made for sensitive teeth. These work by blocking up dentin tubules, helping reduce tooth sensitivity in Clarington. The effect is cumulative, so you must continue using this toothpaste for several weeks to achieve the full impact.
- If you have GERD, make an appointment to see your GP. They can prescribe something to help alleviate the symptoms.
- Try to avoid eating and drinking too many acidic foods and beverages, especially between meals. If you have something acidic, rinse your mouth with plain tap water afterwards and wait at least half an hour before brushing your teeth. Waiting gives your mouth time to become less acidic and your tooth enamel time to re-harden before brushing.