Do you ever go “ouch” when you bite into a cold icicle or groan in agony as you munch on hot pizza? Well, if you do, chances are you have tooth sensitivity. But don’t fret, you’re not alone, there are others like you. All you have to do is read on to learn all you need to know.

Tooth sensitivity is common in the UK but only a handful is aware of this condition and the remedies. Today, we look at the basic details of this condition, including causes, treatment, and preventive measures.

A Brief Overview of Dentin Hypersensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is medically known as dentin hypersensitivity and just like its name suggests, it’s a state of heightened pain or discomfort to stimuli. In other words, it occurs when you feel pain after eating cold or hot foods.

It also varies in individuals. Some experience it in just one tooth; others feel it in several teeth at once. Sadly, some experience hypersensitivity in all teeth. The condition could also be mild, temporary, or chronic depending on symptoms and response.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Several factors induce or contribute to the development of tooth sensitivity. Moreover, it’s important to note that some individuals have teeth that are more sensitive than others. Regardless, there are basic causes of dentin hypersensitivity to take note of.

• Regular consumption of extremely hot or cold foods and drinks can heighten the sensitivity of your teeth over time.

• Brushing too hard can lead to pain and discomfort if done frequently

• Using a hard toothbrush also causes tooth sensitivity

• Also, grinding your teeth at night

• Gastrointestinal reflux can lead to stomach acid wearing off the teeth

• Enamels also wear out when factors like bulimia stimulate regular vomiting

• Tooth decay, gum recession, broken tooth, and so on are also agents of tooth hypersensitivity

How Do You Know You Have Sensitive Teeth?

As earlier stated, some people have more sensitive teeth than others. But there are certain indicators of tooth sensitivity to take note of, which you can ask a reliable dentist like Zen Dental for more information about.. These are usually felt at the roots of affected teeth, and they include:

• Sensitivity to cold foods and beverages

• Sensitivity to Hot meals and drinks

• Sensitivity to Cold air

• Sensitivity to Sweetened foods and drinks

• Sensitivity to Brushing and flossing

• sensitivity to cold water

• Sensitivity to alcohol-based mouthwash

As a result, the above factors become triggers for pain and discomfort at the base of your teeth. Tooth sensitivity can be easily diagnosed by routine dental check-ups so be sure to visit Zen Dental to get your teeth checked.

Treating Tooth Sensitivity

Now that we understand the triggers for dentin hypersensitivity and how they occur, it’s time to learn the remedies for this condition. For starters, if your tooth sensitivity is mild, you can opt for toothpaste produced specifically for sensitive teeth. They lack harsh ingredients and help you maintain proper hygiene without discomfort.

You should also pick only mouthwashes that aren’t alcohol-based to reduce hypersensitivity triggers. Softer toothbrushes should also be adopted and you don’t need to scrub your teeth like a rug when brushing.

It’s still advisable to seek medical help from your dentists when dealing with tooth sensitivity.

Conclusion

While tooth sensitivity is pretty common, it’s easy to prevent. All you need is proper oral hygiene and healthy feeding habits. You are allowed your cheat days when it comes to eating, but moderation is important here, else you’ll be paying a painful visit to the dentist.