If you experience pain or discomfort in your mouth when you eat certain foods or drink something cold or hot, you may have one or more sensitive teeth. The American Dental Association, or ADA, says tooth sensitivity can have several causes. Among the most common are tooth decay, worn fillings, gum recession caused by overzealous brushing and cracked teeth.
Receding Gums
The number one reason for tooth sensitivity is receding gums, according to Cigna. Aggressive tooth brushing can eventually cause the root of the tooth to become exposed. This may cause sensitivity, since roots don’t have protective enamel.
The ADA says your dentist may be able to use a plastic bonding material to seal sensitive teeth caused by receding gums.
Tooth Decay
A cavity or tooth decay can cause a tooth to become sensitive, because it damages the protective tooth enamel, according to the ADA.
Cavities develop when sugary and starchy foods such as pop, cakes or candy aren’t properly cleared away from the teeth. When your dentist removes the decay and places a special filling in the hole, tooth sensitivity should subside.
Fluoride toothpaste can help guard against cavities by strengthening and protecting tooth enamel.
Worn Fillings
When a filling becomes old and worn, it may cause tooth sensitivity. Replacing the old filling may relieve tooth sensitivity. Your dentist may also recommend applying fluoride gel to the sensitive area to strengthen tooth enamel and decrease discomfort.
Whitening or tartar control toothpastes may intensify sensitivity to hot or cold, and should be avoided, advises Medical News Today.
Cracked Teeth
A cracked tooth may be sensitive to certain foods. The ADA says teeth can crack from eating hard candy, nuts or chewing on ice. Teeth may also crack from clenching or grinding teeth and chewing food unevenly.
Treatment for a cracked tooth may include bonding or root canal therapy. In severe cases, the tooth may have to be extracted.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is an infection of the bone and gums that support your teeth, and can cause tooth sensitivity, according to the ADA. When left untreated, periodontal disease can destroy supportive tissue and expose root surfaces of the teeth. Periodontal disease can often be treated with a deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing, and possible medications.
About this Author
Karen Jean Gaskell is a broadcast journalist with 25 years’ experience. Gaskell has written hundreds of articles relating to health, fitness and personal growth. Her work has appeared in “Spirituality & Health Magazine” and “Essential Wellness.” Gaskell studied journalism and broadcasting at both the University of Wisconsin and Brown College.
