We rely on our teeth to help us nourish our body - and we don’t expect them to hurt. We want to sip that hot beverage and eat that ice cream without pain - especially if you are a kid. But for many people, tooth sensitivity is a common occurrence.
It may affect one tooth or many teeth and it may be a temporary occurrence or a chronic one. There are many different reasons why teeth may be sensitive and it is important to find out why. A simple dental procedure may be all it takes to find relief.
Symptoms of Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive teeth often leave you with some pain and discomfort as the result of certain triggers. In other words, most sensitive teeth don’t just hurt periodically for no reason, but rather hurt as the result of something. For instance, some of the most common triggers are:
- Foods and beverages that are hot, cold, sweet, or acidic
- Cold air
- Brushing or flossing teeth
- Alcohol-based mouthwash
The way each person feels their sensitive teeth can vary in intensity and trigger. The pain is often described as intense, though for some it is only mild.
Reasons Teeth May Be Sensitive
There are many reasons teeth may be sensitive. Sure, hot and cold things may cause you to feel sensitivity and pain, but what caused your teeth to react that way in the first place? Here are a few of the most common reasons.
Aggressive brushing. Brushing teeth too aggressively or with too much force can cause teeth to be sensitive. This is amplified even more when it comes to using a hard-bristled toothbrush. The protective layers of teeth can wear down over time and leave your teeth vulnerable to triggers.
Teeth grinding. Does your child grind his/her teeth? Grinding teeth can damage your enamel, leaving the inner areas of the tooth exposed.
A cracked tooth. Chipped and cracked teeth need the attention of a dentist. But whether the issue is visible or not, it could be the cause of sensitivity.
Tooth decay. If your child’s oral hygiene is lacking, tooth decay can also cause pain. While you may not be able to see the decay, the dentist can.
Regardless of why teeth are sensitive, a dentist will be able to get to the bottom of it and take the necessary steps to alleviate the pain.
Learn More About Sensitive Teeth at Tender Smiles 4 Kids
If your child is complaining of pain while eating or drinking certain things, he or she may have a sensitive tooth - or teeth. With a visit to our office, we will be able to do a thorough examination to find out what is causing the pain -- and what we can do to relieve it. Although it is not often an emergency, sensitive teeth can impact one’s quality of life - or be hiding a deeper issue - so it is best to address the issue as soon as possible.
The professional pediatric dental team at Tender Smiles 4 Kids can offer solutions that will help build a solid foundation for good oral hygiene. Contact us at any one of our convenient locations:
North Brunswick Office: 732-249-1010
Schedule your consultation today!