Tooth sensitivity is a common affliction, but the cause of this problem will vary. If you have sensitive teeth, the most important thing to do is see your dentist for an accurate diagnosis. The issue may be minor and temporary, or it could be indicative of a growing oral health complication. Prioritize your dental care and get help when you need it – don’t wait until your next teeth cleaning and checkup.
Common Reasons for Sensitive Teeth
- Tooth decay: Early cavities are quiet but allow them to fester and you will end up with serious tooth pain and gum sensitivity.
- Dental damage: There are circumstances when someone suffers a blow to the mouth but doesn’t seem to have any visible side effects. Unfortunately, sensitivity could be a sign that there is damage inside a tooth.
- Thin tooth enamel: Some people are born with naturally thin tooth enamel that puts them at risk for a host of oral health problems, while those with worn enamel are in the same situation because of age or teeth grinding.
Your Teeth Might Not Be the Problem
The discomfort some people categorize as tooth sensitivity may not be solely a tooth problem. Instead, what they’re experiencing is gum sensitivity which could be caused by:
- Gum disease: No matter what stage of gum disease you have, this infection will cause serious discomfort and threaten the health of your entire smile.
- Gum recession: Often caused by teeth grinding or aggressive tooth brushing, gum recession makes your mouth more susceptible to sensitivity and dental problems.
- Abscess: An abscess is both a tooth and gum problem. The size and discomfort of an abscess are most noticeable on the gum, but without immediate dental care this problem can cause complications for your entire body.
Symptoms of Dental Sensitivity
You know when you have sensitive teeth or gums, but you may want to brush off this discomfort because you don’t want to deal with an oral health problem. Your Fort Lauderdale dentist implores you to pay attention to what’s happening with your mouth and get the dental care you need right away to avoid more complex problems.
Here are just some of the symptoms of sensitive teeth and gums:
- Discomfort eating hot or cold foods and beverages
- Pain while brushing
- Bleeding while flossing
- Sensitivity to acidic or sweet foods and drinks
Throbbing pain is a common side effect of sensitive teeth. The problem is difficult to overcome and certainly can’t be ignored. While you may want to avoid the foods or actions that are directly causing pain, the smartest choice is to have your teeth examined. When tooth enamel is unable to prevent anything from entering the tooth and irritating the nerve, that’s a problem that needs to be addressed.
Dental Care to Correct Tooth Sensitivity
There are several ways to address sensitive teeth, depending on the cause of the problem. Chances are, you may find your dentist recommending a porcelain crown as a protective barrier that also strengthens a tooth. Laser dentistry may be another option for anyone who shows signs of gum disease.
Whatever sensitivity you’re experiencing with your oral health, contact your Fort Lauderdale dentist to schedule a consultation with Dr. Charmaine Johnson at the Premier Smile Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
