Ask The Dentist: Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?

Teeth sensitivity can be a painful and uncomfortable feeling. It is estimated that 45 million adults in the United States complain of sensitive teeth. As your dentist in Richmond, VA we hope to give you a better understanding of why your teeth may be sensitive and what to do about it.

You may experience sensitivity due to several different factors such as your age, brushing too hard, eating acidic foods or grinding your teeth. Sensitivity occurs when the dentin in your tooth is exposed. Very small holes in your teeth’s dentin called tubules are connected to the nerve and can cause pain when exposed to certain things such as sweets, cold, or heat. Sensitivity may also occur when the tooth suffers some type of trauma, such as biting down too hard on something or having dental work completed. This type of sensitivity will typically subside in several days or weeks and should not cause prolonged pain.

To minimize teeth sensitivity, we recommend using a desensitizing toothpaste such as Sensodyne and brushing with a soft bristled toothbrush. We also recommend avoiding highly acidic foods and drinks such as fruit juices, soda, red wine and coffee. You can use a fluoride rinse twice a day to help strengthen the enamel on your teeth. If you suspect that you may be grinding your teeth, you may need a nightguard to protect your teeth from any damage that could expose dentin.

If you have developed sensitivity in one or more of your teeth, please contact us so that we can determine the cause of your sensitive teeth. Identifying why your teeth are sensitive is the first step in treating your sensitivity. Please leave us a comment with any questions you may have about your sensitive teeth or contact us to schedule an appointment to see your Richmond dentist.