Tooth sensitivity isn’t fun. It makes that tasty, summer ice cream treat downright painful! Do you experience sensitivity in your teeth when drinking or eating hot or cold foods and beverages? Here’s why tooth sensitivity occurs, and tips from your Lakewood, CO dentist to get rid of it.
Layers of the Tooth
Let’s take a look at how a tooth is constructed to better understand what can happen to cause tooth sensitivity. The primary reason you feel tooth sensitivity is because the top layer has broken down and the underlying layers are exposed. The tooth is made up of three layers, each with its own purpose, including:
- Enamel: This is the outermost layer of a tooth. It’s the hardest substance in the human body, but the only substance that doesn’t come back once it’s been damaged. Enamel can wear down over time naturally. It can also wear down quicker from things such as acidic or sugary foods.
- Dentin: This is the layer directly beneath the enamel. It’s composed of tiny tubes that are connected with the nerves of a tooth. When this layer is exposed, it starts to send pain and sensitivity signals to the brain.
- Pulp (very center): This layer consists of blood vessels and nerves. When this is exposed or infected, it sends signals of pain to the brain. It can be VERY sensitive if ever exposed.
When the enamel of a tooth is damaged, it begins to expose the other layers of the tooth, which causes various levels of pain. The earlier enamel breakdown is caught, the less likely a tooth is to become infected.
Causes of Enamel Wear-and-tear:
As mentioned before, enamel is the hardest part of the human body. However, it’s prone to wear-and-tear, just as any other component. It is also the only part of the body that can’t repair itself. It’s best to take good care of your enamel. Here are a few things that can expedite the enamel wear-down process:
- Acidic and sugary foods, or poor nutrition: Acidic foods are the worst on your teeth. Although it takes time for enamel to erode, acid speeds up the process quite a bit. Sugary foods, when left on the tooth (by skipping brushing), also expedite the process. The sugars turn to bacteria, which then breaks down the tooth’s enamel.
- Dry mouth (from mouth breathing, age, or autoimmune disease): Breathing through the mouth (rather than through the nose) reduces the amount of saliva in the mouth, which helps wash away bacteria and prevents plaque from forming. We also lose saliva as we age, and there are autoimmune diseases that can reduce saliva too!
- Genetics: Genetics plays a big role in the quality of a person’s enamel. Unfortunately, some people are born with weakened enamel.
- GERD: Stomach acid is highly acidic and eats through enamel quickly.
- Teeth clenching or grinding: This bad habit breaks down enamel over time. Note: Teeth clenching or grinding can be a sign of sleep-disordered breathing.
- Misaligned bite: If the bite isn’t aligned due to various reasons such as TMJ, it can break down the enamel on the teeth that shouldn’t be rubbing up against one another.
- Aging: As much as we don’t like to admit it, enamel wears down over time naturally as we age.
Ways to Prevent or Treat Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is not fun, but thankfully is both treatable and preventable. Here are a few common solutions Lakewood dentists use to treat tooth sensitivity:
- Composite Bonding: Sometimes, Lakewood dentists recommend composite bonding to get rid of tooth sensitivity. Composite bonding covers any surface issues and restores the tooth.
- Veneers or Crowns: Depending on the severity of the enamel loss, dentists may recommend veneers or crowns to cover the affected tooth.
There are also ways to prevent tooth sensitivity from occurring. They are:
- Drinking water after drinking a soda or sugary food.
- Reducing snacking throughout the day.
- Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and with Hydroxyapatite toothpaste.
- Rinsing with a remineralizing mouthwash.
- Flossing once a day.
- Visiting the dentist twice a year.
FAQ About Tooth Sensitivity
Q: How long does it take for tooth sensitivity to develop? A: Tooth sensitivity typically develops gradually as enamel wears down over time. The process can be accelerated by acidic foods, poor oral hygiene, or teeth grinding. Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help detect early enamel loss before sensitivity becomes painful.
Q: Can tooth sensitivity be permanently cured? A: Yes, tooth sensitivity can often be permanently resolved through restorative treatments like composite bonding or dental crowns. These procedures restore the protective barrier over exposed dentin, eliminating the source of sensitivity while strengthening the tooth.
Q: Is tooth sensitivity always a sign of tooth decay? A: Not necessarily. While tooth sensitivity can indicate decay, it’s more commonly caused by enamel erosion from acidic foods, aggressive brushing, or teeth grinding. A comprehensive dental exam can determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment.
Q: What’s the difference between sensitivity and a cavity? A: Sensitivity typically causes sharp, brief pain when exposed to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli, while cavity pain tends to be more persistent and throbbing. Professional dental cleaning and examination can help distinguish between the two conditions.
Q: Are there any foods I should avoid if I have sensitive teeth? A: Yes, limit acidic foods like citrus fruits, soda, and wine, as well as very hot or cold items. Focus on nutritional counseling from your dental team to learn which foods support enamel health and reduce sensitivity.
Q: How effective are desensitizing toothpastes compared to professional treatments? A: While desensitizing toothpastes can provide temporary relief, professional treatments like dental fillings or fluoride treatments offer more permanent solutions by addressing the underlying cause of sensitivity.
Q: Can teeth grinding cause tooth sensitivity? A: Absolutely. Teeth grinding wears down enamel and can be related to sleep apnea or TMJ disorders. Your dentist may recommend a custom night guard along with airway assessment to address both the grinding and sensitivity.
Q: When should I seek emergency dental care for tooth sensitivity? A: Contact our emergency dental service if you experience severe, persistent pain, swelling, or if sensitivity suddenly worsens. These could indicate infection or more serious enamel damage requiring immediate attention.
When to Schedule an Appointment for Tooth Sensitivity in Lakewood, CO
If you’re ready to enjoy the summer but are struggling with tooth sensitivity in Lakewood, CO, it’s best to schedule an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth Turner here to assess your unique situation.
