Causes of Sensitive Teeth
There is nothing quite like the pain associated with a sensitive tooth. A drink of a hot or cold beverage, a sweet craving, or even a deep breath of cold air can cause tooth sensitivity. If you can relate, then there’s a good chance that you have sensitive teeth.
The causes of sensitive teeth can vary. We understand how tooth pain can have a negative effect on your day to day life. Dr. Louis Buono and his knowledgeable team at Garden City Smiles in Garden City, NY offer a wide range of treatments in restorative dentistry to alleviate the discomfort associated with sensitive teeth.
What Is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity can happen to anyone at any time but it most often occurs in individuals 40 years and older. When the enamel, the protective layer of a tooth, becomes thinner, the dentin underneath is exposed.
The dentin is composed of microscopic tubules filled with nerve endings. These nerve endings are sensitive; exposing them to hot, cold, or acidic foods can cause immediate pain.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
This is the very question every patient suffering from tooth sensitivity wants to know. There are several reasons why sensitivity can occur. After a thorough dental examination, Dr. Buono will be able to determine the exact cause and provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan to resolve the issue.
Some of the causes may include:
- Brushing too hard or aggressively, resulting in worn tooth enamel
- Using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Erosion from highly acidic foods and drinks
- Tooth decay
- Worn out fillings that allow foods and liquids to enter
- Broken teeth with direct exposure to the dentin
- Root exposure from gum recession, caused by gum (periodontal) disease
- Inflamed gum tissue from gingivitis
- Grinding your teeth
- Post dental treatment sensitivity, which is common and also temporary
- Excessive plaque
- Use of tooth-whitening toothpastes, mouthwashes, and rinses
Tooth Sensitivity Is Treatable
Rest assured, there is a treatment available to reduce or eliminate your tooth sensitivity. Special toothpaste and fluoride gels made specifically for sensitive teeth are a quick way to alleviate some discomfort.
During your diagnostic evaluation, Dr. Buono may recommend composite bonding to cover exposed roots. We even offer desensitizing pastes. However, if your case is serious, a gum graft may be needed to end the sensitivity once and for all.
Above all, you should never avoid dental care because of your tooth pain, no matter how insignificant it may seem. This is will only make things worse over time, leading to more serious issues.
Sometimes minor discomfort may be due to a cavity or abscess that is not yet visible. Therefore, it is important to attend regular dental examinations so that Dr. Buono and his team can identify the underlying causes of your pain.
Contact Us for More Information
Tooth sensitivity is not something you have to endure alone. Call our office at 516-294-0375 or contact us online anytime. We will schedule an exam so we can determine the source of your tooth sensitivity.