Tooth pain caused by touching, eating hot or cold food, or inhaling cold air means that your teeth have become sensitive. In most cases, the sharp pain is familiar to those who enjoy citrus fruits, sweets, ice cream (especially with coffee), smokers or over-zealous brushing. Because it only breaks the teeth for a few moments, it is usually not a problem. It is only when the pain attacks are too frequent or last for a longer period of time that they become a cause for concern.
Causes of tooth sensitivity:
- Damage to enamel, wear and tear. This happens when a person does not brush their teeth properly, uses a toothbrush with bristles that are too hard, brushes their teeth regularly with whitening toothpaste, or beautifies their teeth with other whitening agents. Over time, without changing the brushing technique or the brush, the enamel wears away and the dentin becomes exposed. The gums can also recede. If the toothbrush is pressed hard while brushing, the enamel layer of the tooth (which is very thin) is rubbed off or the gums are pushed downwards and the roots of the teeth are exposed. In such cases, microscopic pores open outwards and transmit signals from cold, heat and other stimuli to the tooth’s nerve in the form of pain.
- Prolonged use of mouthwash. Some rinses contain acids that promote tooth sensitivity, especially if the dentin is already exposed.
- Grinding habit. People with bruxism involuntarily grind their teeth in their sleep when they are very worried about something.
- Periodontitis. This is an inflammation that damages the tissues surrounding the tooth.
- Gingivitis is an inflammation that can cause sensitivity because it creates “pockets” between the gums and the root, allowing irritants to reach sensitive areas.
- Chipped teeth. Bacteria from plaque enter the pulp through cracks or broken edges, causing inflammation.
- Acidic foods. Frequent consumption of such foods (citrus fruits, tomatoes, pickled vegetables) can lead to enamel erosion.
- Recent dental procedures. Sensitivity can result from the application or replacement of crowns, professional oral hygiene, etc. However, such sensitivity is short-lived and disappears within 4 or 6 weeks.
- Pregnancy. Pregnant women may complain of tooth sensitivity during the first months of pregnancy.
No matter what has caused the hypersensitivity, it should still be discussed with your dentist, as any pain is a signal for concern. The dentist can carry out special treatments and applications to reduce tooth sensitivity using fluoride varnish and dentin-closing agents. Tooth sensitivity can also be treated with laser treatment and, if structural changes are detected, the teeth are simply filled.
