Tooth sensitivity is a common complaint, with up to 40% of people experiencing sensitivity and 12% suffering from confirmed dentin hypersensitivity. If you’re someone who experiences sensitivity when eating, drinking or brushing, visiting a dentist in Ooltewah, TN could be essential.

But what causes tooth sensitivity? And when should you book an appointment with a family dental Ooltewah TN office? Let’s walk through everything you need to know.

The Most Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

If you’ve experienced tooth sensitivity, you’ll certainly recognize the symptoms of feeling pain when your teeth come into contact with hot, cold, or sweet triggers. However, those symptoms are a sign of underlying issues. The most common are detailed below:

Enamel Wear

Enamel is the protective barrier that covers the underlying dentin and tooth’s nerve. If it becomes worn away, it leaves the microscopic tubules exposed. The external triggers like hot or cold drinks then cause fluid movement within the microscopic tubules, which results in immediate pain.

Common causes include grinding, acid erosion, and aggressive brushing. Good oral care and regular family dental care help you stay on top of this issue.

Gum Recession

While the neck and crown of the tooth are protected by enamel, the root is not. Therefore, gum recession leaves the root exposed to the triggering outside stimuli. Again, this can cause instant pain when coming into contact with hot or cold foods. While desensitizing toothpaste helps, it does not address the underlying issue.

Gum recession can be caused by aggressive brushing, poor hygiene, misaligned teeth, and periodontal disease. Left untreated, it may lead to infections or tooth loss.

Cavities

While cavities are very common, it does not detract from their significance. It is a form of decay that leaves the localized area susceptible to pain as the enamel has been permanently damaged. As cavities often start out small and get bigger over time, you may find that pain symptoms start out mild and worsen over time.

Treatments include fillings, which form a protective barrier to prevent nerve exposure. If tooth sensitivity is localized to a single tooth, this is a likely cause.

Grinding

Grinding your teeth (bruxism) is another possible cause of tooth sensitivity. Many people do this at night without realizing, which can cause enamel wear and gum recession alike. In addition to damaging the tooth enamel, the pressure leads to inflammation of the nerve underneath, which can make tooth sensitivity feel worse.

Bruxism can additionally cause broken teeth, which will lead to further nerve exposure and increased tooth sensitivity.

When to See a Dentist Ooltewah, TN

Millions of people experience occasional tooth sensitivity, but it doesn't always require dental care. However, frequent pain when encountering triggers should not be ignored. Further indications that speaking to a family dentist in Ooltewah TN include but are not limited to:

Experiencing pain from heat rather than cold
Pain caused by the mechanics of eating (i.e. chewing)
Seeing or feeling clear signs of gum recession
Pain that lasts for more than a few seconds
Discomfort that’s felt in a localized area of one tooth

Another clear sign is when the pain gets worse over time or you simply cannot cope with the pain. Either way, a professional Ooltewah TN dentist can complete an accurate diagnosis and help you get the support you need.

To find out more or book an appointment for your tooth sensitivity, contact us today.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity — and When to See a Dentist