A lot of people tend to feel uncomfortable or in pain while biting an ice cream with their teeth or eating hot sauces. This condition or experiencing discomfort while consuming cold or warm substances is called tooth sensitivity. The sensitivity can be a long-term issue or a temporary one. It can affect a single tooth as well as multiple teeth.
Certain people experience sensitivity in their entire set of teeth as well. Contact a family dentist in Fishers, IN, to schedule an appointment for a dental checkup.
Reasons behind teeth sensitivity
People with thinner enamel tend to experience more sensitivity in their teeth than others. The enamel is the outermost protective layer of the tooth, its thinning leads to feelings of discomfort while biting food items with teeth. Other than that, the other causes behind sensitive teeth are as follows:
- Consumption of acidic food items
Acidic food items like tomatoes, fruits, juices, etc., are heavily consumed by most people. However, it is not healthy for your teeth in the long run. The outer layer of teeth, also known as the enamel, gets damaged by the acids present in these items. It leads to erosion of the enamel layer of teeth and ultimately exposes the tender layer of dentin present underneath it. People with tooth sensitivity are suggested to put a limit to acidic food items in their diet and consume calcium-rich substances.
- Peroxide-based toothpaste and whitening products
Everyone desires bright and white teeth. People make a lot of efforts to achieve a shining smile, including using toothpaste and other teeth-brightening products. These items are rich in peroxide. The bleaching solution present in them increases teeth sensitivity among people. An excellent way to decrease sensitivity would be to eliminate temporary teeth whitening solutions like this.
- Gum recession
The tubes in tooth roots allow people to feel cold, hot, sour, etc. The layer of gum tissues protects these roots. In case of periodontal issues, the gums start receding, and the coating is removed from the roots, thereby exposing them. They are extremely sensitive, and their exposure increases the sensitivity felt in the teeth.
- Constantly clenching or grinding the teeth.
The tooth enamel is the strongest part of our body. However, constantly clenching or grinding of teeth can lead to dental problems. They cause the enamel to get worn out due to the pressure. It causes the nerves of the mouth to get in a risky situation, and enamel erosion leads to increased teeth sensitivity. You can prevent it by the usage of mouthguards and by making the required modifications in diet and lifestyle.