Tooth sensitivity (also called dentin hypersensitivity) can occur without warning, and it affects a surprising number of Americans. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, tooth sensitivity is the most common complaint that dentists receive. A sudden onset of sensitive teeth can have a number of causes. Some of these causes can be treated at home, while others will require more in-depth dental care.
Why Does Tooth Sensitivity Occur Suddenly?
Teeth are made of an outer layer of enamel and an inner layer of dentin. The enamel is a coating that protects the inside of the tooth. Dentin is a porous material, and if it is exposed, the hollow tubes can allow hot and cold food and beverages to come into contact with the nerve endings beneath the teeth. In severe cases, even breathing through the mouth will cause pain. Since enamel wears away slowly, it may take years for it to become thin enough to create sensitivity, even if it seems like the problem started overnight.
What Are the Causes of Tooth Sensitivity?
There are a few different reasons why enamel may wear away. Patients who brush their teeth too vigorously can brush away the enamel. Acidic foods and beverages, like coffee and candy, can also erode tooth enamel, especially when a person eats or drinks them excessively. Repeated exposure to stomach acid, such as with chronic acid reflux or in cases of bulimia, is also extremely damaging to enamel.
Other causes of tooth sensitivity include nerve exposure through tooth decay or damage. Gum disease can cause the gums to recede, exposing the nerve endings in the roots of the teeth, as well. The best way to prevent tooth sensitivity is with regular dental care, including brushing and flossing twice per day.
What Are the Treatment Options?
The most common treatment for tooth sensitivity is a desensitizing toothpaste used twice daily at home. A dentist will also usually recommend that the patient cut down on consuming acidic food and drinks—including every Southerner's favorite, sweet tea. Fluoride treatments may also help relieve pain from sensitivity. If the root of the problem is extensive tooth damage, however, patients will usually require in-office
dental care. For instance, if the cause of tooth sensitivity is a cavity, a dentist will remove the decayed portion and may repair the tooth with a procedure such as
dental bonding. Cracked or abscessed teeth may require a root canal.
For more information about dental care for tooth sensitivity, contact Storts Family Dentistry by calling (580) 223-6720 or filling out their
contact form.
Teeth are made of an outer layer of enamel and an inner layer of dentin. The enamel is a coating that protects the inside of the tooth. Dentin is a porous material, and if it is exposed, the hollow tubes can allow hot and cold food and beverages to come into contact with the nerve endings beneath the teeth. In severe cases, even breathing through the mouth will cause pain. Since enamel wears away slowly, it may take years for it to become thin enough to create sensitivity, even if it seems like the problem started overnight.
