Why Do You Have Sensitive Teeth? 3 Reasons Why It's Happening To You

Do you a pain that is sharp and stinging when eating foods that are too cold or hot? Sensitive teeth can cause you to no longer enjoy your favorite tasty foods, but it is a problem that is not just an annoyance. Sensitive teeth are often an indication that you have another underlying problem with your teeth. There are ways to fix problems with sensitivity and enjoy those favorite foods once again, but it starts by understanding what is causing teeth sensitivity.

Cavities

Do you notice that problems with sensitivity revolve around one tooth? If so, the underlying problem could be a cavity. Cavities typically do not cause problems with sensitivity until they are deep cavities. Unfortunately, you cannot always tell that there is a cavity by looking for a hole in the tooth. For instance, cavities could be in places that are hard to see, such as between your teeth due to poor flossing.

A general dentist will find the cavity, clean it out, and fill the cavity so that the inside of the tooth is no longer exposed. X-rays may be used to tell how deep a cavity is before proceeding, and may advise a root canal if the cavity is deep. Overall, dealing with the cavity should solve sensitivity problems, no matter what method is used.

Weak Tooth Enamel

Is the sensitivity in several teeth at the same time? This is most likely not due to several cavities, but weak enamel. Thin enamel is what exposes nerves inside your teeth, which overreact to cold and hot foods

Weak enamel will be more common for people that are lacking foods with calcium in their diet, such as dairy. You can also brush using a toothpaste that has fluoride in it, and drinking water with fluoride

Receding Gum Line

Have you noticed gums that are shrinking and exposing more of your teeth? This is a sign of receding gums, and is a frequent cause of tooth sensitivity. It happens because nerves close to the tooth's surface are usually in the area underneath the gums. One the gums have been exposed, you will feel more tooth sensitivity.

It will help to use antiseptic mouthwash to treat the sensitive parts of the teeth, but it should also warrant a trip to the dentist. An antibiotic may be necessary to treat your gum disease, or recommend a gum graft to fix the parts of the gums that are leaving the teeth exposed.