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Mar 20, 2021|Teeth Sensitive

Are My Teeth Sensitive?

Women with the Ice cream in the hand

Do you feel pain after a spoonful of hot soup or after a bite of ice cream? If so, take comfort in knowing that you’re not alone. You may ask yourself: are my teeth sensitive? Well, when you experience pain while taking hot or cold foods, it could signal a cavity. People with teeth sensitivity also experience pain. 

Sensitivity is characterized by pain or discomfort in the teeth when you expose them to cold or hot temperatures. This condition can be chronic or temporary, and it can affect a single tooth or all of them. 

Common Causes of Teeth Sensitivity

Some people have naturally sensitive teeth because of thinner enamel – the outer layer of the tooth. The coating protects the tooth, but it often wears down when you brush too hard or use a hard toothbrush. Also, regularly drinking or eating acidic beverages and foods will lead to teeth sensitivity.

Medical conditions such as Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) cause acid from the stomach to come up and wear down the teeth.

Sensitivity also occurs when the teeth are unprotected and exposed. Some reasons that can lead to this include chipped teeth, tooth decay, broken teeth, and gum recession. If your teeth are sensitive after getting dental work done, such as whitening or crowns, the pain should subside in a few days.

Are My Teeth Sensitive? Symptoms of Teeth Sensitivity

So, how do you know if you have sensitive teeth? Well, you’ll feel pain when exposed to specific triggers, including: 

  • Hot or cold beverages and foods
  • Cold air
  • Sweet or acidic drinks and foods
  • Coldwater, particularly during dental cleaning
  • Brushing or flossing teeth
  • Alcohol-based mouthwashes 

These symptoms may appear and disappear over time, and they may vary from mild to intense.

Diagnosis of Teeth Sensitivity

If this is the first time you’re experiencing sensitivity, make an appointment with a dentist. A dental facility will check the health of your teeth and search for potential problems like loose fillings, recessed gums, or cavities.

The dentist can even perform a check-up when you go for routine dental cleaning. The dentist will clean your teeth while doing a visual exam. Diagnosis may require the healthcare professional to touch your teeth using specialized instruments. In some cases, the dentist might order you to get an X-ray to rule out cavities as a cause.

Treatment of Teeth Sensitivity

For mild tooth sensitivity, you can try an over-the-counter medication, such as special toothpaste. Toothpaste companies design these tubes of toothpaste with desensitizing ingredients that prevent pain from reaching the teeth’s nerves. For mouthwashes, choose alcohol-free products as they’re less irritating to your teeth.

It’s advisable to go to a dental facility that has a variety of services so that you can receive a complete oral treatment if you find yourself asking, are my teeth sensitive? These facilities have specialized equipment and offer a wide range of services, such as: 

Now you have an answer to the pressing question: are my teeth sensitive? You know how to identify the symptoms of sensitivity and how to treat the problem. Remember, keeping your mouth healthy is the first step to ensuring overall optimal health. Call us today at 720.513.8405 for more information.

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