Almost everyone has, at some point in their lives, experienced tooth pain and sensitivity. The reasons for why are lengthy but thankfully treatable. Here are the ten most common reasons to explain your tooth sensitivity.
Causes of tooth sensitivity
Fractured teeth or crown
A cracked tooth or crown can lead to pain and sensitivity in your teeth. Some cracks can even be so tiny and almost impossible to see but can still cause quite a bit of pain.
Tooth decay or cavity
A cavity is one of the most common reasons for teeth sensitivity. Tooth decay can go untreated and for weeks or months before it starts to cause issues like sensitivity and pain.
Heat and cold sensitivity
Worn tooth enamel or exposed nerves can cause tooth sensitivity. Eating or drinking too hot or too cold temperatures can cause sharp pain.
Teeth grinding or jaw clenching
Constant teeth grinding and jaw clenching can lead to tooth sensitivity. That happens over time because of the worn tooth enamel. Other factors like stress or poor sleep can trigger this habit even without you knowing.
Gum infection
In its early stages, gum infection is called gingivitis. When left untreated, it can turn into periodontal disease. Sensitive teeth and gums can be a symptom of progressing gum disease.
Sinus infection
Teeth sensitivity and toothaches can be a symptom of a sinus infection. When your sinuses get infected, they get inflamed and fill with pressure. This pressure can cause them to compress the nerve endings of your teeth.
Teeth bleaching products
Often, pain from teeth bleaching products is temporary. Using bleaching gels, whitening strips, even chairside bleaching sessions can put you at a higher risk of tooth sensitivity. The pain or sensitivity should naturally go away when you finish using the bleaching product.
Tooth enamel erosion
Also referred to as dentin hypersensitivity, this can cause pain or discomfort when chewing. Factors like a highly acidic diet and rough tooth brushing can cause this.
Gum recession
Gum recession happens with age. Without proper care or treatment, this can lead to exposed tooth roots. You become vulnerable to gum disease, tooth infections, and tooth sensitivity.
Dental procedures
Any recent dental work, especially ones that involve drilling, can make your teeth more sensitive. With some procedures, you may experience tooth sensitivity for a few days up to two weeks afterwards.
Treatments for tooth sensitivity vary depending on the reason or cause. Your doctor might suggest something as simple as a sensitivity-reducing toothpaste. Other factors might require you to get a corrective procedure to relieve your pain.
If you have these symptoms, immediately see a doctor
In some cases, individuals may experience excruciating pain for unusually long. If these symptoms occur, do not waste any time and immediately see a healthcare professional.
- If you have a toothache lasting more than 48 hours.
- If you have a migraine that goes all the way to your teeth.
- If you’re experiencing a throbbing or sharp pain that will not go away.
- A fever that started around the same time as your toothache.
Whether you have a dental emergency or not, tooth sensitivity is not something to be taken lightly. As stated, it could be a symptom of some worse underlying problem. If you need a professional’s help, contact our dentist in Markham for an appointment.