Has this happened to you? You take a sip of cold water, or a bite of delicious ice cream, and your teeth tingled in a not-so-comfortable way. Most of the time, when your body has a reaction, it is trying to tell you something. Sensitive teeth may mean that tooth enamel has thinned over time, allowing heat and cold to transmit more easily to the inner parts of your tooth. Sensitivity may also mean “Something needs attention.” If tooth sensitivity is more than an occasional annoyance, your dentist’s expertise can help diagnose the issue.
Some Possible Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
A visit to your dentist is the best way to diagnose the cause of tooth sensitivity. Some common reasons include:
- Thinned tooth enamel, which can occur for a variety of reasons
- A small crack or fracture that allows sensation to reach the inner tooth
- Gum disease can cause the gums to recede from the crown (visible portion) of the tooth. When more of the tooth root is exposed, sensitivity can occur in that area.
- Distress within the tooth, such as tooth decay, can cause teeth to be sensitive
What Your Dentist Might Recommend
You do not have to live with teeth that are hypersensitive to heat and cold. Depending on the cause of the sensitivity, your dentist may offer solutions such as:
- Toothpastes especially formulated to fill in the microscopic holes left by thinning tooth enamel
- Fluoride treatments to support weakened tooth enamel
- A change in your oral hygiene routine, to insure gums are healthy and protective of teeth roots
- Gum grafts to replace gum tissue that has receded
- A filling to address a crack or cavity
- A crown to protect the exposed portion of a sensitive tooth
Sensitive Teeth Don’t Have To Be A Fact of Life
If eating hot or cold foods bothers your teeth, see us to discuss the causes and solutions. Contact Absolute Dental Care today in Virginia Beach, VA to schedule a visit by calling (757) 428-7440. We proudly welcome patients Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Suffolk, Hampton, Eastern Shore, and all surrounding communities.
