What Causes Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is more common than you might think, but that doesn’t mean you have to deal with it. At our dental practice near Ripon, we can help treat tooth sensitivity, so you can get back to enjoying life once again. Find out what it is, what causes it and how we can help cases of tooth sensitivity in today’s blog post.

What is tooth sensitivity?

It’s where you have a short, sharp sensation in your teeth that may relate to:

• Brushing your teeth
• Eating and drinking
• Hot/cold foods
• Cold weather

Tooth sensitivity is usually temporary, with the pain passing after the activity.

Factors that lead to Tooth sensitivity

Why are my teeth sensitive?

There are lots of reasons you could be experiencing tooth sensitivity. It might be that the tooth enamel has worn away and the bundle of nerves inside your tooth is more susceptible to discomfort. Or, you might have exposed tooth roots caused by gum problems like receding gums and gingivitis. Chipped teeth and fillings can also cause sensitivity in the teeth. And signs of decay could indicate a cause for concern.

Diagram of a tooth and all its parts

How do you treat tooth sensitivity?

You could try an over-the-counter toothpaste with a desensitising ingredient that helps you take care of your smile while dulling the sensations that cause you discomfort. That’s one of the best ways to manage this problem at home.

In our dental practice, you could opt for a treatment like bonding, where sensitive surfaces can be protected with a hardened resin. And if there are signs of decay, a root canal might treat the problem (for instance, an infection in the tooth) while a gum graft could build back the tissue that led to exposed roots.

How do I prevent tooth sensitivity?

Here’s what our dentists, serving patients in Ripon, recommend:

• Brushing and flossing twice a day
• Using rounded strokes, rather than ‘scrubbing’, to protect precious tooth enamel
• Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and/or sensitive toothpaste
• Wearing mouth guards for sport to prevent injury to the teeth
• Avoiding sugary or acidic foods and drinks
• Having regular dental check-ups to spot problem signs early

What else do I need to know?

At our dental practice near Ripon, we help you to prioritise the health and appearance of your mouth, teeth and gums. We do this through expert care, bespoke advice and recommendations, and a range of treatments – whether routine, restorative or cosmetic. To find out how we could help, get in touch with our dentists today and book a consultation.