As the snow falls and the temperatures freeze, we bundle up and do our best to stay warm. But what if that cold winter breeze causes a jolt of pain when inhaled and hitting your teeth? Or you sip on a chilled drink at a holiday party and you flinch in pain? It means you might have sensitive teeth. But sensitive teeth are not only partial to pain from cold, discomfort can also be caused by hot drinks and foods. But why?
Ouch, That Hurts!
Our teeth are normally covered by gum tissue. This tissue protects an underlying layer of dentin, which contains millions of tiny tubules with nerve endings. When these tubes are left unprotected due to gum recession or eroded enamel, those nerves are exposed to temperature variations.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
- Aggressive brushing which can leave dentin exposed.
- Tooth grinding
- A diet high in acidic beverages such as soda, coffee, tea, most juices and wine can can wear down tooth enamel.
- Over-use of tooth-whitening agents – the harsh ingredients used to strip away the stains can also thin the enamel around dentin.
- Receding gums
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity issues, call our office to get guidance on steps you can take to alleviate the symptoms and make certain there aren’t any additional underlying causes of discomfort.
Note: Information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified dental and medical health providers with questions you may have regarding your specific dental or medical conditions.
