My Teeth Feel Sensitive. What’s Causing It?

If you’ve noticed that your teeth feel more sensitive than usual, you’re not alone. It’s a fairly common complaint, especially during the winter months, when cold air can make tooth sensitivity worse. However, cold weather isn’t the only culprit that can exacerbate tooth sensitivity. Numerous factors can make your teeth more sensitive any time of year. Let’s take a look at some of the top causes of tooth sensitivity and some recommended solutions from your Kansas City family dentist.

Cold Weather and Hot or Cold Foods

One of the leading triggers for tooth sensitivity is sudden changes in temperature. This can come from simply being out in the cold air or from eating or drinking foods or beverages that are too hot or too cold. Why does this happen? Like any other surface, the enamel on your teeth expands and contracts when temperatures change suddenly, which can lead to pangs of uncomfortable sensitivity in your teeth.

Receding Gums

Ultimately, tooth sensitivity is usually caused when the dentin—the sensitive portion of your teeth below the enamel—is exposed. This can happen for many reasons, but one of the most common is receding gums, which may occur due to aging, gum disease, or even overly aggressive brushing. As the gums recede, they expose the sensitive roots of your teeth.

Erosion of Enamel

The enamel is the protective outer surface of your teeth, which shields the sensitive dentin below. However, any number of factors can erode the surface of your teeth, including acidic foods and beverages, too much sugar, and acid reflux.

Brushing Too Hard

As your Kansas City family dentist, we’re always encouraging you to brush, but you need to make sure that you’re brushing correctly. Brushing your teeth with too much force can actually wear down the enamel of your teeth and cause irritation in your gumline. Both of these things may exacerbate tooth sensitivity and potentially cause bigger problems down the road.

Tooth Grinding (Bruxism)

Tooth grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism, is a common problem with a variety of causes, including stress and a misalignment of the jaw. It has a number of possible treatments, including mouth guards to protect the teeth during the night, when bruxism is most common. Whatever the cause, grinding or clenching your teeth can lead to damage if it’s not treated, and it can also be a major cause for tooth sensitivity.

Aging and Natural Wear

The older you get, the more susceptible you are to things like enamel erosion and gum recession. Natural wear and tear over time thins your enamel and makes your gums more likely to recede, which can make your teeth more sensitive.

Those are some of the leading causes of tooth sensitivity that we see as a Kansas City family dentist. What can you do about it? We’ve got a few tips to help. To start with, you should schedule regular checkups and discuss your concerns with your family dentist. We can provide tailored advice that will help you address your specific situation.

Other good approaches to help reduce tooth sensitivity include using toothpaste specially formulated for sensitive teeth. Fluoride treatment might also help. No matter the state of your teeth, you should avoid highly acidic or sugary foods wherever possible, and always stay hydrated. Check the firmness of your toothbrush bristles and consider switching to a softer-bristled brush. Finally, if you grind or clench your teeth (or think you might be doing this), talk to your Kansas City family dentist about a nightguard or other intervention.

At Blacker Family Dental, we’re here to help you and your family with all of your dental needs, such as tooth sensitivity, cosmetic dentistry, or Invisalign treatments for patients of all ages. Call (816) 763-8400 or click here to schedule an appointment.