Sensitive teeth can make eating and drinking unpleasant. There are many reasons that teeth become sensitive. Whether you’re brushing too hard, have a receding gum line, have a cracked tooth, or have another problem, it’s important to find the reason that your teeth are becoming sensitive.

Once you know why your teeth are having this problem, you can address the issue. Below are some of the most common reasons that teeth become sensitive.

1. You’re Brushing Too Hard

Brushing too hard can cause tooth sensitivity in two ways. First, hard brushing can rub away enamel. This causes tiny holes to form in the teeth, exposing the dentin. Dentin is a layer of the tooth made up of several sensitive tubes. Once the dentin is exposed, the teeth become more sensitive.

Second, brushing too hard can also pull the gums away from the teeth, exposing the sensitive roots of the teeth, and causing further tooth sensitivity. Your dentist will let you know if the gums are pulling away from your teeth, as it will be clear to the dentist when you come in for your 6-month checkup.

2. Recent Visit to the Dentist

Whether you came in for a regular checkup or an out-of-the-ordinary dental procedure, these appointments often leave patients experiencing sensitive teeth – temporarily.

If you’ve noticed that your teeth are sensitive immediately after a visit to the dentist, don’t worry about it. If the sensitivity continues longer than several days, contact your dentist to find out if there’s any reason for concern.

3. Cracked Tooth

Cracked teeth can expose the bare pulp or dentin, which is the most sensitive part of the tooth. If you’re experiencing sudden and severe sensitivity in one tooth only, and that tooth was never sensitive in the past, see your dentist as soon as possible. A cracked tooth can lead to problems like infection, which can lead to a painful condition and may cause a need for a root canal.

4. Receding Gum Line

Factors like bacteria decaying your gum line can expose the roots of your teeth, which causes that sensitive discomfort. A receding gum line is a common problem in older adults but can happen to anyone due to poor dental hygiene habits or other issues.

Seeing your dentist regularly can help. Your dentist will help keep your teeth free of bacteria at the gum line and will also coach you on dental hygiene best practices to avoid a receding gum line.

5. Teeth Grinding

Grinding rips and sheers the enamel away from the teeth and exposes the dentin. If you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist. Your dentist may prescribe something like a mouth guard that can help stop this problem.

6. Tooth Decay

Bacteria causes infections and acid build-up, which causes pain, and also sensitivity in some cases. Seeing your dentist every 6 months will help prevent tooth decay.

7. Too Much Mouthwash

Mouthwashes can contain acids that may damage your teeth’s middle layer. If you use mouthwash, always follow the instructions on the side of the bottle, and talk to your dentist to ensure that you’re using the proper amount.

8. Dietary Reasons

Foods and drinks high in acid or sugar have been shown to erode the enamel and cause sensitivity. Also, cold and hot foods and beverages can have an impact on the enamel, so it’s best to stay away from extreme temperatures if you feel this discomfort.

Come See Your Local Hutto Dentist – Solis Dental

Talk to your dentist at Solis Dental to get more advice about how you can protect your teeth from sensitivity. Some kinds of toothpaste can combat sensitive teeth. It’s also important to buy the toothbrush with the softest bristles to prevent further damage.

Come see us at Solis Dental to learn more! Our Hutto offices are equipped with state-of-the-art technology. We offer virtual consultations! We’re also accepting new patients. Learn how to switch dentists, and book your first appointment here.