Most people experience sensitive teeth at some point in their life. In most cases, a sensitive tooth does not indicate a serious dental problem. However, you may have a sensitive tooth that worsens and results in a severe toothache. Determining the cause of your sensitivity and receiving early treatment is essential for your comfort and may also help prevent the development of a worsening problem.
To find out what we can do about your teeth sensitivity schedule an appointment with Trident General Dentistry.
The Nerve Inside Your Teeth
The reason a tooth can become sensitive is the presence of nerve tissue inside. Protecting your teeth from sensitivity is tooth enamel, the hardest tissue in the body. Beneath the enamel is a softer and more porous tissue known as dentin. Within the dentin are tubules that connect to the soft tissue beneath the dentin. This tissue is known as the dental pulp, which contains nerve tissue and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected, it can cause symptoms ranging from mild sensitivity to severe pain.
Seven Reasons You May Have Sensitive Teeth All Of A Sudden
A sensitive tooth can create problems with eating and drinking certain foods and beverages. Depending on the cause of your sensitivity, some mild cases may resolve without any treatment. More commonly, sensitivity signals that you have a problem that we need to evaluate and treat to improve the symptoms. Here are seven common causes of sensitive teeth:
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Dental cavity. Once tooth decay penetrates the enamel and affects the dentin, you can develop a sensitive tooth suddenly.
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Gum recession. The roots of your teeth are covered with a material known as cementum instead of enamel. Fortunately, the gums covering your roots protect them from sensitivity. Unfortunately, a small amount of gum recession can expose a very sensitive root.
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Clenching or grinding your teeth. Clenching and grinding place a lot of stress on your teeth that can damage the enamel and make your tooth sensitive. Added pressure on teeth also causes inflammation of the ligament that holds your teeth in their sockets. This inflammation can create a sensitive tooth.
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Cracked tooth. Even a hairline crack not visible to the naked eye can cause dental pulp inflammation.
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A defective dental filling. Dental fillings eventually need replacing. A broken filling can cause sensitivity of the underlying dentin.
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An acidic diet. Excessive consumption of acidic foods and beverages can start dissolving the minerals in your enamel that protect your teeth from sensitivity.
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Home teeth bleaching products. Frequent or improper use of home bleaching products can make your teeth sensitive. Typically, this is temporary and resolves when you stop using the product.
Treatment Options For Sensitive Teeth
After evaluation of your sensitive teeth, we may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
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Changing toothbrushes or toothpaste.
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Fluoride application.
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Dental fillings or bonding.
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Dental crown or veneer.
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Surgical gum graft.
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Root canal treatment.
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Custom-made nightguard.
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Change in diet.
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Improved oral hygiene.
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More frequent professional teeth cleaning.
Schedule An Appointment
If you experience sudden tooth sensitivity, call us for a comprehensive oral examination. We can diagnose your sensitivity and recommend the appropriate treatment to maintain healthy teeth and gums.