You take a sip of hot chai, and suddenly, zing. Or you bite into ice cream and have to put the spoon down because your tooth just flinched. Sound familiar?
This is a sign of tooth sensitivity. Most people visit the dentist for sensitive tooth reasons and these can be treated. Let’s learn what tooth sensitivity is, how it can be treated and when to see your dentist.
What is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity (also called dentin hypersensitivity) is a short & sharp pain which you feel whenever your teeth will come in contact with something which is hot, cold, sweet or sour. This happens when your enamel wears down and the soft layer underneath called dentin will be exposed to hot or cold and cause the zing you feel.
Why do teeth become sensitive? Common Causes of Sensitive Teeth
Are you also thinking that even if I brush twice a day, then why do my teeth become sensitive? Below are some of the causes of sensitive teeth:
1. Brushing too hard will wear down your enamel and push your gums back.
2. Gum disease leads to receding gums and exposing the tooth roots.
3. Sometimes sensitivity is the indication of tooth decay or cavities.
4. Cracked or chipped teeth also cause sensitivity in teeth.
5. Acidic or citric foods like pickles, tomatoes, tea will wear down the enamel.
6. The habit of teeth grinding wears down enamel and leads to sensitive teeth.
7. If you have a dental procedure recently like teeth cleaning, filling can cause short term tooth sensitivity.
Sensitive Teeth After Teeth Whitening: How Long Does It Last?
If your teeth feel jumpy after whitening, relax. It’s one of the most common side effects. Whitening products temporarily open the tiny pores in your enamel, so your teeth react more to hot and cold.
Tooth sensitivity after teeth whitening will last 24-48 hours, but mild sensitivity can be occasionally felt for 3-7 days.
To ease it:
a) Use a desensitising toothpaste
b) Do not consume extreme hot or cold food for few days
c) Avoid acidic or citric foods and drinks to protect porous enamel
Sensitive Teeth during Pregnancy: Why does it happen?
Many women find their teeth become more sensitive during pregnancy. Some common reasons for it are below:
a) Hormonal fluctuations will make your gum swollen which will expose tooth roots.
b) During pregnancy you have morning sickness which brings your stomach acid into your mouth and can weaken enamel.
c) Craving in pregnancy will lead to frequent snacking which increases tooth decay chances.
What can you do to avoid it?
1. If you are vomiting just rinse with water and avoid brushing immediately.
2. Brush twice a day with a soft brush.
3. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
4. Don’t skip your dental check-up.
Sensitive Teeth in Winter: Why cold weather makes it worse
Notice your teeth hurting more as the temperature drops? It’s not just your imagination, especially when you breathe through your mouth it will expose dentin directly. Also if you have drunk a cup of coffee and it is followed by cold water, then temperature swings are sudden.
Try this in winter:
a) Breathe through your nose outdoors and cover your mouth with a scarf
b) Choose lukewarm water over very hot or very cold drinks
c) Keep using sensitive toothpaste every day
If you are experiencing pain every winter then visit your dentist as there might be exposed dentin or any hidden problem.
Home remedies to treat Sensitive Teeth
To prevent sensitive teeth at home you can take below steps:
a) Use a desensitising toothpaste daily and give it two to three weeks to work
b) Switch to a soft-bristled brush and brush gently in small circles
c) Rinse with lukewarm salt water for temporary relief
d) Cut back on soft drinks and acidic foods
e) Floss daily and use a fluoride toothpaste
If you are having too much sensitivity continuously just don’t rely on painkillers, visit your dentist timely for checkup.
How sensitive teeth can be treated?
Home care works for mild sensitivity, but it can’t fill a cavity or repair a crack. Your dentist may suggest:
1. Fluoride varnish or gel to strengthen enamel
2. Dental Bonding or sealants to cover exposed roots
3. Teeth Fillings, or replacing worn crowns
4. Gum treatment or grafting for receded gums
5. A night guard if you grind your teeth
Most of these are quick and comfortable, and the earlier you come in, the simpler the fix usually is.
When to See a Dentist for Sensitive Teeth
Don’t wait if:
a) The pain lasts more than a few days despite sensitive toothpaste
b) The pain lingers for minutes after hot or cold
c) It’s always the same tooth
d) The pain comes on its own or wakes you at night
e) You notice swelling, a bad taste, or a visible crack or dark spot
FAQs
1. Are sensitive teeth indicative of cavities?
Not necessarily, but they may be. Different causes may include wearing away of enamel and receding gums. Only a dental examination can determine what the cause is.
2. For how long are sensitive teeth expected to remain sensitive post-whitening?
A few days typically. If sensitivity lasts over a week, or you experience discomfort, consult with your dentist.
3. Is it common to have sensitive teeth during pregnancy?
Yes. Hormonal, gum swelling and morning sickness are all ways in which sensitive teeth can be linked to pregnancy. And dental check-ups are completely safe during pregnancy.
4. Do sensitive toothpastes work?
They do work for minor tooth sensitivity and should be applied regularly for 2 to 3 weeks for full effect. If the medicine does not help, get a dental review.
5. Can sensitive teeth be treated permanently?
Usually, yes. Treatment of the cause leads to lasting effect.
Don’t wait for the pain to get worse
Sensitivity in teeth is your mouth method of warning something is wrong. While many individuals improve the condition by changing certain behaviors, if the discomfort keeps returning, you should consult with a dentist.
Our team at Triveni Dental will diagnose the reason for your teeth sensitivity, giving you a simple explanation and offering appropriate treatment before it is too late.
Are you in search of a dental care service in Bhiwani, or any other town nearby? Visit us at Bhiwani, Loharu, Charkhi Dadri, Badhra, Kalanaur (Rohtak), Jui, or Tosham.
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +91-8708156005
