You may be brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day, but if you have sensitive teeth, you know that this isn’t always enough. If you’re struggling with sensitive teeth, read on to find out what could be causing the problem and what you can do about it.
What Are Sensitive Teeth?
Sensitive teeth can be a nuisance. They can make it difficult to enjoy hot or cold drinks and can make your teeth hurt when you eat or drink something sweet. There are many reasons why you may have sensitive teeth. It could be because of tooth decay, gum disease, or worn-down tooth enamel. If you're not sure what's causing your sensitive teeth, it's best to read the 10 factors that may be causing it.
Abrasion
One factor that may be causing your sensitive teeth is abrasion. Abrasion is the wearing away of tooth enamel due to brushing or other activities. When tooth enamel is worn away, the underlying dentin becomes exposed. Dentin is a softer tissue than enamel and is more susceptible to sensitivity.
Abrasion can be caused by brushing too hard, using a hard-bristled toothbrush, or eating acidic foods. It can also be caused by grinding your teeth at night. If you suspect that abrasion may be causing your sensitive teeth, talk to your dentist. They can recommend ways to prevent abrasion, such as using a soft-bristled toothbrush or avoiding acidic foods.
Acidic Foods and Drinks
Acidic foods and drinks can be one of the causes of sensitive teeth. When the enamel on your teeth is exposed to acid, it can become weakened and eroded. This can lead to your teeth becoming more sensitive.
There are many acidic foods and drinks that you may consume on a daily basis without even realizing it. Some examples include citrus fruits, tomatoes, soda, and coffee. If you find that you have sensitive teeth, it may be worth cutting back on these acidic foods and drinks.
Brushing Too Hard
One factor that may be causing your sensitive teeth is brushing too hard. When you brush your teeth too hard, you can wear away the enamel that protects them. This can make your teeth more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. If you think you are brushing too hard, try using a softer toothbrush. You should also be careful not to brush your gums too hard, as this can also cause sensitivity.
Chipped or Cracked Teeth
Chipped or cracked teeth are one of the most common causes of sensitive teeth. When a tooth is chipped or cracked, the protective enamel is damaged. This can expose the sensitive root of the tooth, causing pain and discomfort when eating or drinking.
If you have a chipped or cracked tooth, it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to determine the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of treatment. Depending on the severity of the damage, they may suggest dental bonding, veneers, or crowns. In some cases, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth.
Clenching or Grinding Your Teeth
One of the most common causes of sensitive teeth is clenching or grinding your teeth. This can happen during the day or at night. If you clench or grind your teeth, it can put a lot of pressure on your teeth and make them very sensitive.
You may not even realize that you are clenching or grinding your teeth. If you find that your jaw is sore when you wake up in the morning, it may be a sign that you are doing this. If you think you may be clenching or grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist about it. They can help you find ways to stop doing it.
Gum Disease
One factor that may be causing your sensitive teeth is gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can cause them to become inflamed and tender. If you have gum disease, you may experience sensitivity in your teeth when you eat or drink hot or cold beverages.
Mouth Breathing
One potential cause of sensitive teeth is mouth breathing. This can happen if you have a cold or allergies. When your mouth breathes, your mouth gets dry and the air can irritate your teeth. This can cause them to become more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. If you think you might be mouth breathing, talk to your doctor or dentist to see if there is a way to reduce the sensitivity.
Plaque
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden and turn into tartar. Tartar can irritate your gums and cause them to become inflamed. This condition is called gingivitis.
Plaque is the main cause of sensitive teeth. Therefore, it is important to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque. You may also want to use an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce plaque formation.
Receding Gums
One factor that may be causing your sensitive teeth is receding gums. When your gums recede, it exposes more of the tooth root. The tooth root is not covered with enamel like the rest of the tooth, so it is more susceptible to pain when exposed to hot or cold temperatures. If your gums are receding, you should see a dentist so they can determine the best course of treatment.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is one of the most common causes of sensitive teeth. When tooth decay occurs, it can create tiny holes in your teeth. These holes are called cavities. Cavities can cause your teeth to become sensitive because they expose the nerves inside your teeth.
If you have tooth decay, your dentist will treat it by cleaning out the cavity and filling it with a special material. In some cases, you may need a root canal procedure to treat tooth decay. This procedure involves removing the nerve from the tooth and filling the empty space with a special material.
Conclusion
If you're dealing with sensitive teeth, know that you're not alone. The best way to stop sensitive teeth is to use B. Weiss water flosser. This type of flosser is designed to be gentle on the gums and teeth, making it ideal for people with sensitive teeth. The B. Weiss water flosser also comes with a variety of tips to help you target different areas of your mouth, making it a versatile tool for your oral care routine.
By being aware of the potential causes of your sensitive teeth, you can take steps to protect your teeth and reduce your discomfort. If you have any concerns, be sure to talk to your dentist so they can help you find the best solution for your individual needs.
Disclaimer:
The content in this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen. The author and publisher do not take responsibility for any consequences resulting from the information provided in this article.