If consuming hot food or cold drinks cause you teeth pain, it’s a sign that you have sensitive teeth. The pain is often sharp and sudden, but it doesn’t last long. This condition is getting more common, yet most people don’t pay enough attention to it until it develops into a more severe condition.
Causes of Sensitive Teeth
Your tooth has an outer layer of enamel which serves as a protection against outer influences. Enamel also protects dentin, the soft layer that is underneath it. When the enamel is eroded, or when your gum line recedes, outside elements can get to the dentinal tubules which connect to the nerves inside the tooth. It’s the contact with these nerves that causes you pain.
What Factors Contribute to Tooth Sensitivity
Knowing the root cause of the condition is the first step towards treating it. These are the factors that commonly lead to tooth sensitivity:
- Cavities or cracked teeth: As a cavity grows, your dentin becomes more exposed and reacts every time you consume something hot or cold. Cracked teeth can become infected with bacteria from the plaque which eventually causes inflammation.
- Brushing too hard: Contrary to popular belief, it’s not a good idea to brush your teeth too hard or too often, as this will wear down the enamel layer and expose your nerve endings causing tooth sensitivity.
- Acidic food consumption: If you tend to consume sweets, soda, soft drinks, etc. and don’t brush your teeth often enough, the acid in the food can erode the enamel layer.
- Dental procedures: Certain dental procedures such as teeth whitening treatment, tooth restoration, filling, or cleaning can cause tooth sensitivity for a short time post-treatment.
What to Do When You Have Sensitive Teeth
Getting treated by a knowledgeable dentist is key to your oral health. If you are noticing teeth sensitivity or any unusual symptoms, contact us at Quarry Park Dental in Northeast Calgary and schedule an appointment today!