TOP 5 CAUSES OF TEETH SENSITIVITY

Have you ever experienced a sudden surge of pain in a tooth? How about an overall aching feeling while drinking your morning coffee or enjoying dessert? If you answered yes, you’re not alone. One in eight people experience tooth sensitivity, and it’s pretty common as we age. Unfortunately, tooth sensitivity is more common in women and has been directly linked to at-home teeth whitening solutions. Yet, other oral health care issues cause sensitivity, and Dobson Ranch Dental Care can treat them all.

Top 5 Causes of Teeth Sensitivity

1. GUM RECESSION

According to the CDC, 47.2% of American adults have some form of periodontal disease. Your gums can recede for many reasons, including daily brushing, eating, and drinking. Because the gums are responsible for holding your teeth in place and covering the roots of your teeth, their recession can cause root exposure. Tiny tears or cracks in the gumline allow food, air, and liquid direct access to the root of a tooth, causing sensitivity and discomfort.

2. ENAMEL & DENTIN EROSION

The enamel of your teeth can wear away for many reasons. Directly below this hard, mineral exterior is the dentin. When this dentin becomes exposed, it can cause increased sensitivity, especially while eating and drinking. Unfortunately, once the enamel is gone, it can’t be replaced. However, desensitizing and calcifying toothpaste can help reduce your discomfort. You can also talk to your dentist about more permanent solutions. 

3. TOOTH DECAY

Another common cause for tooth sensitivity is an untreated cavity. Many times, people don’t realize they have a cavity until it becomes painful. By the time they give our office a call, they are starting to feel that sensitivity or discomfort. If left untreated, a cavity can cause a deeper infection that often results in a root canal, crown, or even tooth loss, altogether. 

4. CRACKED TOOTH

It shouldn’t surprise you that a cracked tooth or even crown can hurt! Even the smallest crack in your tooth that you can’t see with the naked eye is enough to cause pain and sensitivity. Sometimes, the only way to detect or determine if a tooth is cracked is through the process of elimination and dental tests. If you have a loose crown or suspect a cracked tooth, then it’s time to schedule an appointment and remedy it right away!

5. SINUS INFECTION

Yes, a sinus infection can cause tooth sensitivity or pain. A sinus is simply a hollow cavity inside a bone, and your face has many of them. These are usually crucial for drainage when you have a cold, but these cavities sometimes harbor infections. When the infection creates pressure in your jaw, it can pinch the nerves that lead to your teeth, causing undue pain and sensitivity. Oral antibiotics will usually clear up a sinus infection and relieve your pain. 

LET’S INVESTIGATE YOUR TEETH SENSITIVITY

If you’re not sure what’s causing your sensitive teeth, then it’s time to schedule an appointment with Dobson Ranch Dental Care. Regular cleanings and exams are crucial, especially as we age. We’ll investigate what’s causing your discomfort, offering solutions like root canal therapy, crowns, periodontal treatment, and even TMJ treatment. So, if you live in Mesa, AZ, give us a call today at (480) 838-8558.