What Exactly Is Tooth Sensitivity, and Why Do I Have It?

People of all ages can get sensitive teeth, but it usually starts between the ages of 20 and 40. It can cause mild to severe pain in the mouth that can last for several hours.

What Is Tooth Sensitivity?

This happens when the enamel gets thinner or when the gums pull away from the base of the tooth, revealing the dentin. When this is exposed, the enamel and gums can’t protect the tooth and root like they did before.

What Are The Causes?

There are several things that can cause sensitive teeth:

• Worn enamel – caused by using a hard toothbrush or brushing aggressively
• Tooth erosion – caused by acidic food and drink
• Tooth decay – caused by worn/ leaking fillings or a broken tooth
• Gum recession – often caused by poor oral hygiene, can also be inherited.
• Grinding teeth
• Temporary sensitivity after dental treatment (this will disappear after a short period of time)

If your teeth start to hurt, talk to your dentist. He or she will try to figure out what’s wrong. Once they have found the cause, they will treat it and give you advice on how to deal with the sensitivity.

How to deal with sensitive teeth:

• We could give them a fluoride gel to make the tooth enamel stronger and lessen the pain.
• There are toothpastes that can be bought over-the-counter that stop the nerve endings in the dentin of the tooth from being able to feel pain.
• Keeping up with good oral hygiene is always the best way to prevent and treat sensitive teeth.

Ways You Can Prevent Tooth Sensitivity:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Use sensitive toothpaste
• Brush and floss twice a day
• Clean the whole mouth, even between teeth, gums and tongue
• Avoid acidic foods and drinks

If your teeth hurt or feel sensitive, you should always go to the dentist and tell him or her what’s going on.

Langley’s Dental Care number is 01344 842953. You can call them if you need help or want to make an appointment.