Exploring the Causes of Sudden Tooth Sensitivity
Ashraf Dentistry weighs in on surprising causes of tooth sensitivity. (Source: Everyday Health, 12 Surprising Causes of Sudden Tooth Sensitivity, By Madeline R. Vann, MPH, Medically Reviewed By Meeta Shah, MD, August 7, 2017, https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/sensitive-teeth/surprising-causes/ ).
Drinking a tall glass of iced tea or a hot cuppa coffee can be equally painful to those with sensitive teeth, and this is a surprisingly common problem across ages. One in eight people suffers from it, according to the Journal of American Dental Association. The American Academy of Endodontists terms this a ‘brief sensation’ that occurs when the layer beneath the tooth enamel is exposed to heat or cold. Many of us know that teeth become sensitive when the tooth enamel is eroded.
The factors
Ashraf Dentistry, an experienced dental team, shares the common causes of tooth sensitivity and solutions. Ashraf Dentistry reiterates that loss of the protective layer over the dentin is the chief cause. Ashraf Dentistry goes on to caution that there are some causative factors that most people do not know about. Stress is one such oft-overlooked cause of teeth sensitivity.
The dentist goes on to explain how stress can result in unintentional tooth grinding that strips the tooth of the enamel, leaving it sensitive. Teeth grinding often leads to other problems, including headaches. Ashraf Dentistry recommends a simple solution: a night guard to prevent grinding and clenching, protecting your teeth while you sleep.
Ashraf Dentistry also presents a rather unexpected solution to the problem- Botox Therapeutics. He affirms that Botox Therapeutics is used to address bruxism rooted in stress and not just for cosmetic purposes, as one would expect.
Apart from this, tooth sensitivity can also be aggravated by certain physiological and external factors. For example, the dentist points out that teeth can get highly sensitive when one has a sinus infection due to the sinuses’ inflammation. Even pregnant women often find their teeth extremely sensitive, thanks to the hormonal changes affecting the gums. The dentist elaborates that seasonal sensitivity is also a very real and common complaint. Cold winds can worsen it.
But what about the sensitivity encountered right after a visit to the dentist? Ashraf Dentistry explains that right after dental work, such as implants or cleaning and fillings, it is quite normal to experience teeth sensitivity for a short while. That said, Ashraf Dentistry advises relying on the dentist for teeth whitening instead of going for over-the-counter whitening products that can damage the enamel.
As Ashraf Dentistry elaborates, other conditions can lead to teeth sensitivity too. A common culprit is tooth decay that strips away enamel, leaving the underlying dentin vulnerable. This can even occur due to aggressive brushing with a brush that is too hard.
“Even what you eat can make your teeth sensitive or worsen sensitivity. For example, those who are in the habit of chewing on ice cubes often crack the protective enamel. You are also inadvertently stripping the enamel off if you drink citrus drinks or sports drinks too often”, Ashraf Dentistry warns, talking about good habits that can help ward off tooth sensitivity.
Among common diseases that can cause this issue, Ashraf Dentistry lists digestive disorders that cause corrosive stomach acids to come in contact with the teeth. That means any illness that causes excessive vomiting can provoke sensitivity. Of course, infected gums can also be a direct cause, with effective gum disease treatment resolving it quickly.
Regular visits to your dentist
It pays to visit your dentist regularly, Ashraf Dentistry recommends, to ensure that your teeth’ enamel is in good enough shape to keep sensitivity at bay. It is recommended to have the cleanings and fillings on time as well.
Are you experiencing sudden tooth sensitivity? Contact Ashraf Dentistry today!
