The Truth About Tooth Sensitivity
Many people experience tooth sensitivity, which is a condition that results in pain when teeth are exposed to stimuli, such as hot or cold food or drink, sweet foods, or acidic foods. This makes it difficult to enjoy certain favourite drinks and meals. The pain is usually sharp and temporary, but it can be frustrating when you’re trying to enjoy eating or drinking.
There are several reasons why your teeth may be sensitive, and they’re all quite common.
How It Happens
Some of the most common reasons are dental decay, gum disease, and worn enamel. When the enamel that protects your teeth wears away, exposing the dentin underneath, it causes you pain when in it meets something cold or hot.
Our habits and behaviours also factor into it.
Diet
Another factor that affects the health of your teeth is what you eat. Consuming acidic foods such as tea, pickles, tomatoes, and citrus can cause your enamel to erode. Once this enamel erosion occurs, you’re more prone to tooth sensitivity.
Demineralization
Demineralization is a decrease in the mineral content of your tooth enamel. When enamel is worn down, teeth become sensitive. Plaque can build up and soften the tooth’s interior more easily at this point. Enamel is not a growing tissue—your body won’t grow back what it’s lost, so it’s important to protect your teeth by avoiding acidic foods and sugary drinks as much as possible.
Irregular Flossing
Flossing your teeth is an essential part of your daily tooth-cleaning routine. Brushing your teeth twice a day is not enough to prevent plaque buildup on your teeth, especially in between your teeth. You need to floss at least once a day to prevent softening or demineralization. Flossing will also help reduce your chances of developing gum disease and tooth decay.
Grinding
If you find yourself grinding your teeth, you can take steps to stop. One of the best ways to stop is to wear a mouthguard at night. This will protect your teeth from further damage. Another way to stop teeth grinding is to relax and de-stress before bed. Try practicing some relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or yoga, to help you fall asleep.
Teeth Whitening
If you are experiencing teeth sensitivity after whitening treatments, there are a few things you can do to help the situation. First, choose toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Secondly, alternate whitening days to give your teeth a break to recover. This type of sensitivity is transient and will subside within 1-2 weeks of stopping the whitening process.
Brushing Too Hard
Using a toothbrush with hard bristles or brushing your teeth too hard, may cause gum recession, abrasions in your teeth, and tooth enamel wear. For these reasons, most dentists recommend using a soft-bristle toothbrush and encouraging proper brushing techniques. An electric brush like Sonicare will also help to regulate and minimize toothbrush abrasion.
If you wonder why your teeth are so sensitive, it’s time to speak with a professional about possible solutions. When you choose Yaletown Dentistry, the best dentist in Vancouver, they will be able to help you figure out what’s going on and provide you with helpful tips.
Yaletown Dentistry
We are Yaletown Dentistry, in downtown Vancouver. If you are suffering from sensitive teeth, please come see us. We’ll give you a free evaluation. Our experienced dentists have seen and easily handled a wide variety of challenges.
Our approach to our dental services is gentle and painless. Whether you need a routine cleaning or more extensive work, we can help. Our location in Yaletown is convenient, and you can easily book your appointment online anytime, or simply give us a call.
