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Dental Sensitivity: How It Happens, When It Becomes A Problem And How To Treat It

29 February 2016 by Christy Long

You may be like many people who suffer from highly sensitive teeth. While it can be extremely annoying (not to mention uncomfortable), it does not have to take control of your life. Here is a look at how dental sensitivity develops, instances when it becomes a problem, and how you can treat it:

Reasons for Your Tooth Pain

While there are many explanations for dental sensitivity, it helps to know about the most common ones. To start, many people experience sensitivity and even pain when they have receding gums. The recession of the gums exposes a portion of the roots of the teeth. Thus, dental nerves that are normally covered are more exposed.

Moreover, gum disease or gingivitis can cause sensitivity as delicate gum tissue becomes inflamed. Another reason for sensitive teeth is tooth decay. As the enamel becomes compromised and the dentin is displayed, the dental nerves can be more readily accessed. This also occurs as the enamel wears away as a result of aging. 

Is Your Dental Sensitivity a Sign of Something More Serious?

Unfortunately, there are instances in which sensitive teeth could be a sign that something much more serious is going on in your mouth. If your oral sensitivity is accompanied by bleeding, inflammation, redness or swelling,  you need to contact a dental office like Eden Prairie Dental Care as soon as possible. These are indications of gum disease that could develop in periodontitis, which can result in tooth loss, bone loss and oral infections. Contacting your dentist at once to schedule an emergency appointment can help ensure you receive treatment before the condition worsens.

Take Steps Now to Avoid a Problem Later

Most dental sensitivity can be avoided by taking appropriate precautionary measures. If you want to prevent sensitive teeth and other oral health problems, be sure that you brush and floss at least twice a day and use a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth if prescribed.

Furthermore, if you eat sweets or sticky substances, you should brush and floss immediately after consuming them so that the food does not coat your teeth for long periods. Oral bacteria feed on simple carbohydrates, so removing sugars from your mouth quickly can help lessen decay-causing acid that bacteria release as they eat. You may also want to rinse with a dentist-approved mouthwash that is alcohol-free.

Some people naturally have sensitive teeth, but when it interferes with daily life, it is a problem. Talk to your local dental professional for an individualized course of treatment.

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