One of the worst feelings you can experience is yearning for an ice cream cone on a hot day, but knowing it would cause more pain than pleasure!
Tooth sensitivity is a common problem. It can be caused by hot or cold, sweet or sour food or drinks – and sometimes even by breathing cold air. The pain can be sharp, sudden and uncomfortable.
What causes this annoyance? Tooth sensitivity occurs when dentin, the tissue that makes up the core of each tooth, becomes exposed and vulnerable to pain. A protective enamel coating normally covers dentin, but it can wear away with gum disease.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth. If not treated, gum tissues can separate from the teeth and form pockets that can house bacteria. Other factors that can lead to sensitive teeth include:
Brushing too hard. Avoid using a hard-bristled toothbrush. Over time, brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can cause dentin to be exposed. This can also cause gums to recede (the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth).
Cracked teeth. Chipped or broken teeth may fill with bacteria from plaque and cause inflammation.
Teeth grinding. Grinding or clenching your teeth may wear down the enamel and expose underlying dentin.
Acidic foods. Regular consumption of foods with a high acid content, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickles and tea can also cause enamel erosion.
Routine dental procedures. Sensitivity can occur following teeth cleaning, root planning, crown placement or tooth restoration. This sensitivity is usually temporary.
If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, ask your dentist for a recommendation. He or she will have some ideas that you can use to ease your discomfort.