Tips for Managing Tooth Sensitivity 

You may have sensitive teeth if you have ever had a stinging discomfort in your mouth after eating. Tooth sensitivity to heat and cold begins and ends abruptly, frequently due to excessive food, beverages, or air temperatures. Tooth sensitivity is a common experience, although some people’s teeth are more sensitive than others.

Sensitive teeth are commonly caused by worn dental enamel or exposed tooth roots. Other reasons, such as a cavity, a worn filling, a cracked or chipped tooth, or gum disease, can also cause dental discomfort. You can consult a dentist near the South Loop in Downtown Chicago for more information. 

What causes your teeth to be sensitive? 

Teeth sensitivity is caused by three components of your mouth: enamel, cementum, and dentin. Enamel is the protective covering that protects your teeth’s crowns from stains and damage. The cementum offers the same level of protection, but just for the roots of your teeth and gums. Dentin is a tough, nerve-connected tissue found beneath your cementum and enamel. An exposed dentin layer causes sensitivity and discomfort in the nerves in your teeth and gums. The following are some of the most common reasons for oral sensitivity:

• Teeth with holes, cracks, or microfractures.
• Tooth enamel that has become worn or damaged.
• The changing weather increases pressure on your sinuses, causing pain at the gumline.

Once this sensitivity is triggered, your symptoms may range from a transient, acute twinge in your gums to a prolonged shock of pain. One typical cause of dental sensitivity is inhaling in both hot and cold temperatures. Other triggers include:

• Drinking hot and cold beverages and foods.
• Eating sour or acidic foods.
• Sometimes, cleaning your teeth.

Consider the following excellent treatments for sensitive teeth relief:

• Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth 

Using toothpaste formulated particularly for treating dental sensitivity can aid with symptom alleviation. Most of these toothpastes contain a component that temporarily plugs microscopic gaps in your enamel and dentin. This lowers the length of time your teeth’s sensitive nerves are exposed.

• Use soft-bristled toothbrushes 

Changing your toothbrush is a simple way to relieve irritated teeth. If you use a toothbrush with hard bristles, you may be exacerbating your issue. Abrasive toothpaste and stiff brushes wear down the enamel, resulting in more tiny holes and, eventually, greater sensitivity. They may also worsen gum recession by exposing dentin and generating painful nerves. To protect the surface of your teeth and gum integrity, use a soft bristle toothbrush and brush softly.

• Go to the dentist. 

Receding gums and gum disease can be major causes of tooth sensitivity. As the gum tissue breaks down and slips away from the tooth surface, portions of teeth with no enamel become exposed. This leaves nerves vulnerable and can cause substantial pain. Consult your dentist to ensure you do not have gum disease that has to be addressed.