About Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity, also known as “dentin hypersensitivity,” is something that almost everyone experiences at least one time in their life. For some, sensitivity is a part of their daily lives, and for others it is an on and off kind of situation. Tooth sensitivity is when there is frequent pain or some type of discomfort associated with eating or drinking cold or hot foods and beverages. There are numerous reasons as to why your teeth might be sensitive, but all cause the same thing to happen. The only way a tooth can become sensitive is if the inside of the tooth, consisting of enamel, dentin and pulp, become exposed to anything from the outside.

Common Causes to Sensitive Teeth:

Having sensitive teeth is something that many find very hard to avoid. When the interior of a tooth becomes worn down it is highly likely that sensitivity will arise. The most common ways that a tooth’s interior might wear down are from:

• Brushing your tooth too hard
• Uses a poorly made toothbrush
• Grinding your teeth together
• Chewing on ice
• Drinking beverages that are too hot
• Drinking beverages that are too cold
• Exposure to air that is too cold
• Certain mouthwashes
• Teeth whitening procedures
• Acidic foods
• Acidic beverages

The most common symptom of sensitive teeth is experiencing pain or discomfort from:

• Cold air
• Sugary foods
• Food that is hot
• Food that is cold
• Beverages that are hot
• Beverages that are cold
• Acidic foods
• Acidic beverages

Common ways to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity:

• Avoid acidic foods and beverages
• Use mouthwash with fluoride
• Use a softer recommended toothbrush
• Floss as often as possible
• Brush after you eat anything
• Avoid tobacco products