If you’ve ever felt a sudden, sharp pain when drinking cold water, eating ice cream, or sipping hot coffee, you’re not alone. Tooth sensitivity is a very common dental concern. Our team at Fort Washington Dental Associates is here to help you enjoy a healthy, comfortable smile with sensitive teeth treatments in Washington Heights!
This post explains why teeth may feel sensitive, possible treatments for sensitive teeth, and when to talk to your dentist about tooth sensitivity.
What Is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity usually refers to dentin hypersensitivity. Sensitive teeth may feel sudden, sharp discomfort in response to specific triggers, such as when something cold touches the teeth. It can also be triggered by heat, sweet or acidic foods, or physical touch such as with a toothbrush.
The teeth are made of layers. Enamel is a hard, dense outer layer. Dentin is the layer below the enamel. It makes up the bulk of the tooth structure, and is more porous than enamel. The pores in dentin are called tubules, and contain a special fluid with tiny nerve fibers inside.
What Triggers Sensitive Teeth Pain?
Sudden changes in temperature or pH, physical contact, or evaporation (like cold air passing over the teeth) can cause the fluid inside the tubule to shift, activating the nerve of the tooth. Common sensitivity triggers include:
- Cold drinks or ice water
- Hot coffee, tea, or soup
- Ice cream or frozen foods
- Sweet foods or candy
- Acidic foods such as citrus or pineapple
- Cold air
- Brushing your teeth
While this pain can be intense, it should be temporary and go away quickly.If these triggers consistently cause pain, it’s a good idea to get in touch with our team about an evaluation for tooth sensitivity in Washington Heights.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Certain foods and drinks may trigger sensitivity, but what actually causes the teeth to become sensitive in the first place? There are many possible root causes for sensitive teeth.
Enamel Wear
Tooth enamel is the hard outer layer that protects teeth. When enamel becomes thinner, the inner dentin layer becomes more exposed.
Common causes of enamel wear include:
- Acidic foods and drinks
- Aggressive brushing
- Acid reflux or stomach acid exposure
- Long-term teeth grinding
- Eating disorders such as bulimia
Over time, enamel erosion can make teeth increasingly sensitive to temperature and pressure.
Gum Recession
When gums pull back from the teeth, the roots become exposed. Unlike the crown of the tooth, roots do not have enamel protection.
Gum recession is often linked to gum disease and bite disharmony. Symptoms may include:
- Teeth appearing longer
- Sensitivity near the gumline
- Red or irritated gums
Tooth Decay
Another common cause of sensitivity is tooth decay.
When cavities form, they create openings that allow hot, cold, and sweet substances to reach the inner part of the tooth. If untreated, decay can worsen and lead to serious infection, abscess, and tooth loss.
Teeth Grinding
Grinding or clenching your teeth, also known as bruxism, can gradually wear down enamel. Excessive pressure can also irritate the nerves of the teeth and make your teeth more sensitive before the enamel becomes worn down.
Many people grind their teeth during sleep without realizing it. Signs may include:
- Morning jaw soreness
- Headaches
- Flattened or worn teeth
- Increased sensitivity
A custom night guard can help protect teeth from further damage and alleviate sensitivity.
Recent Dental Procedures
Some patients experience temporary sensitivity after dental treatments such as:
- Fillings
- Crowns
- Professional cleanings
- Teeth whitening
This type of sensitivity is usually mild and resolves within a few days. If you have lingering sensitivity after a dental treatment, get in touch with your dentist! In many cases, a tiny adjustment can provide serious relief.
How to Make Your Teeth Less Sensitive
Treatment for sensitive teeth depends on the underlying cause. A dentist can recommend the best approach after examining your teeth and gums.
Desensitizing Toothpaste
Specially formulated toothpaste can help block the nerve pathways that transmit pain signals from the tooth to the brain. With consistent use, many people notice reduced sensitivity within several weeks.
It’s also important to know that certain ingredients in toothpaste can cause sensitivity! If your teeth feel sensitive, avoid whitening and tartar control ingredients and choose a less abrasive brand like Sensodyne.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that helps to strengthen and reinforce tooth enamel. It can also reduce sensitivity by blocking dentinal tubules and protecting the nerves. Professional fluoride treatments are an affordable and effective way to help sensitive teeth. If your teeth are very sensitive, we may also recommend prescription-strength fluoride products to use at home.
Dental Bonding or Sealants
If dentin is exposed, dentists may apply protective materials such as bonding or sealants to cover sensitive areas and prevent discomfort. These treatments aren’t right in every situation, but they can be helpful in some cases.
Night Guards for Teeth Grinding
If grinding is the cause of your sensitivity, a custom night guard can protect your teeth while you sleep and prevent further enamel wear.
Treating Cavities or Gum Disease
When sensitivity is caused by underlying conditions such as cavities or gum disease, those issues must be treated directly. Addressing the root cause is the most effective way to eliminate long-term sensitivity.
If you have gum recession, gum graft surgery can cover the exposed root surface and can provide significant sensitivity relief.
When Is Tooth Sensitivity a Warning Sign?
Tooth sensitivity is common, but new, persistent, or severe pain may indicate a more serious dental problem. You should schedule a dental visit if tooth sensitivity:
- Lingers for several seconds after being triggered
- Becomes more intense over time
- Is concentrated in one specific tooth
- Occurs alongside swelling or gum pain
It can be hard to tell the difference between sensitivity and a toothache. If you’re ever uncertain, don’t hesitate to ask! Our team can evaluate your tooth sensitivity in Washington Heights and help you find relief.
Get Relief with Tooth Sensitivity Treatment in Washington Heights!
Sensitivity may seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can sometimes signal enamel erosion, gum disease, or cavities that need treatment.If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity in Washington Heights, get in touch with our team to have it evaluated!
At Fort Washington Dental Associates, we take a preventive and personalized approach to dental care. Our team will carefully examine your teeth, identify the cause of your discomfort, and recommend treatments designed to protect your smile and restore your comfort.
