If you suffer from sensitive teeth, your dentist will most likely inform you that you’re not alone. In fact, it’s thought that around 45 percent of Australian households have at least one person with sensitive teeth. While there’s no defining reason why one person would have sensitive teeth and another wouldn’t, it’s a pain that occurs when you eat something cold, hot, or acidic, or even when you encounter cold temperatures outside as well.
The primary cause of sensitive teeth is exposed dentin – a part of your tooth connected to nerves that trigger pain and sensitivity. Dentin can become exposed if you brush your teeth too hard which wears down your enamel, from gum recession, if you clench or grind your teeth, have plaque build-up, use mouthwash, have cracked teeth, or if you have gingivitis. Acidic food has also been known to wear down enamel as well.
After you have seen your dentist for cleaning, dental crowns, tooth restoration or root planing, you may also find your teeth are more sensitive, but this often disappears after a few weeks.
How to Treat Sensitive Teeth
It’s important to understand that if you have sensitive teeth, you will always have some sensitivity to a degree. However, there are a few ways in which to alleviate the pain, reduce the sensitivity, and desensitise your teeth. You will first need to visit your dentist to help decide on the best course of action for your unique case.