Suffering from sensitive teeth is common – and more often than not it’s nothing to worry about. However, on some occasions, sensitive teeth can also be a warning of something more serious that requires investigation by your dentist.
The symptoms of sensitive teeth vary depending on how severe the problem is. You might have mild twinges or discomfort when eating certain foods – such as cold foods or sugary foods, or you could have severe discomfort that lasts for a number of hours. Common complaints also include sharp, sudden shooting pains in the teeth – which are again usually a reaction to something hot, cold, sweet, or sour.
Teeth become sensitive when your gums begin to recede or pull back – exposing the delicate surface underneath your gum. This surface – the dentin – is filled with tiny tubes that lead to your tooth’s nerve centre. Because of this, any triggers – as mentioned above – have more chance of reaching the nerve in your tooth, which in turn causes pain.
The fact you’ve got sensitive teeth needn’t be something to be concerned about though. Brushing your teeth too hard or grinding your teeth at night can result in dentine become exposed as tooth enamel is worn away. However, sometimes tooth enamel wear is a result of something more worrying – such as dental erosion, gum disease, or a cracked tooth.
If you’re not quite sure what it causing your sensitive teeth, it’s best to get things checked over by your dentist. We’ll be able to diagnose problems like gingivitis, periodontitis and gum disease – hopefully before it’s too late.
Keeping your teeth free from sensitivity is easier than you might think.
If you’ve already got sensitive teeth there are a few things you can do to help:
If your sensitive teeth are causing you pain, why not book an appointment to see us today? You can contact the team on 01243 297 000.
Posted on: 25th Mar, 2016