Why Are My Teeth So Sensitive?

That split-second jolt when you sip your morning coffee. The sharp zing from a spoonful of ice cream. Maybe even a twinge just from breathing cold air through your mouth. At Dental Care of Madison, we understand how uncomfortable tooth sensitivity can be. Our experienced dentists and patient-centered team will identify and treat the causes of your discomfort, helping provide lasting relief.

What Are the Causes of Tooth Sensitivity?

Sensitivity happens when a tooth's inner layer, called dentin, becomes exposed. Dentin contains tiny tubes that lead to the tooth's nerve. When those tubules are exposed to temperature changes, pressure, or acidic foods, the nerve responds. That response is what you feel as that sharp, sudden discomfort.

But how does the dentin become exposed? Healthy teeth have two natural layers of protection: the enamel on the crown and cementum on the roots. When either of these layers wears away or the gums recede, the dentin loses its natural protection, leading to tooth sensitivity.

The following are some of the leading causes of tooth sensitivity:

• Aggressive Brushing: Scrubbing your teeth hard or using a firm-bristled brush can wear away enamel and push the gums back, exposing sensitive root surfaces. Switching to a soft-bristled brush and using a lighter touch can help stop further damage.
• Tooth Enamel Erosion: Soda, citrus fruits, coffee, and wine are all acidic enough to gradually wear down your enamel over time. Once enamel is gone, it does not grow back, which is why diet habits can have a lasting impact on sensitivity.
• A Cracked or Chipped Tooth: Even a hairline crack can provide a pathway to the tooth’s nerve. Sensitivity that appears only when you bite down in a certain way, or that lingers after temperature exposure, can sometimes indicate a crack that may not yet be visible.
• A Cavity Developing Between Teeth: Decay that forms between teeth or near the gumline can cause sensitivity before it ever causes outright pain. If one spot is consistently more reactive than others, don’t wait. The sooner you have the tooth evaluated, the better the long-term outcomes.
• Gum Recession: When the gums pull away from the teeth, the root surfaces become exposed. Unlike the crown of the tooth, root surfaces are not protected by enamel, so they tend to be especially reactive to temperature and pressure. Gum recession can result from aggressive brushing, periodontal disease, or simply the natural aging process.
• Teeth Grinding and Clenching (Bruxism): The forces of bruxism can lead to significant wear and damage over time. The constant grinding can wear down tooth enamel and flatten the biting surfaces, resulting in tooth sensitivity.
• A Recent Dental Procedure: Sensitivity following a filling, crown placement, or teeth whitening is common and usually temporary. The tooth nerve can stay irritated for a few weeks after treatment. If it doesn’t settle down, make sure to let us know.
• Teeth Whitening: Over-the-counter whitening products can sometimes contain harsh chemicals and come with delivery methods that fail to protect the gums during treatment, leading to sensitivity. Professional whitening treatments are much safer and more effective, with less sensitivity or discomfort.
• Tooth Infection: Sensitivity that persists after the trigger is removed, or pain that occurs when eating or when placing pressure on a tooth, can indicate inner pulp damage or infection. It is important to seek prompt care to prevent the problem from worsening.

How Are Sensitive Teeth Treated?

The right approach depends on what is causing the sensitivity. Our team at Dental Care of Madison will start by identifying the cause before recommending a course of action. Some common solutions include the following:

• Desensitizing Toothpaste: These products work by blocking the open dentinal tubules over time, gradually reducing reactivity. They tend to work best for mild, generalized sensitivity.
• Fluoride Treatment: Professional fluoride applications can help strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity. We may also recommend a prescription fluoride toothpaste for home use.
• Addressing Periodontal Disease: If recession or sensitivity is tied to periodontal disease, treating the underlying infection and inflammation is the priority. Scaling and root planing is often the first line of treatment.
• A Custom Occlusal Splint: If grinding and clenching your teeth is the cause of your discomfort, we may recommend a custom occlusal splint. Wearing this oral appliance at night can protect your enamel from further wear and help manage the effects of bruxism.
• Dental Crown or Dental Bonding: If a tooth has significant enamel loss or tooth root exposure due to gum recession, we may recommend covering the exposed area with dental bonding or a dental crown. Our team will evaluate your unique needs and recommend the ideal solution to provide relief.
• Gum Grafting: In cases of significant gum recession, a soft tissue graft can cover exposed root surfaces. This helps reduce sensitivity while also protecting the tooth’s long-term stability.
• Root Canal Therapy:If a tooth is infected or if other treatments do not relieve your discomfort, our team at Dental Care of Madison may recommend root canal therapy. The endodontic treatment is the most effective solution for eliminating tooth sensitivity.

How Can You Lower the Risk of Tooth Sensitivity?

The following are some ways you can help keep tooth sensitivity at bay:

• Brush and floss regularly to reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease, two leading causes of tooth sensitivity.
• Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent damage to your tooth enamel.
• Limit your intake of acidic beverages and foods, as they can erode tooth enamel over time.
• If you grind and clench your teeth in your sleep, a custom occlusal or TMJ splint can lower the risk of tooth wear or fracture.
• Visit Dental Care of Madison for your twice-yearly dental cleanings and examinations to help prevent the onset or progression of dental disease, reducing your risk of sensitivity.

Tooth Sensitivity Treatment Near Me in Madison, MS

If you have been dealing with tooth sensitivity, contact Dental Care of Madison to schedule a consultation. Our experienced dentists and team will perform a thorough dental exam to identify the causes of your discomfort and help you get on track to lasting relief. Call us at (601) 898-9390 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!

Proudly serving patients in Madison, Gluckstadt, Ridgeland, Canton, and the surrounding communities.