03 Feb Why are my teeth sensitive to hot and cold?
Does the thought of a bowl of ice cream or a cup of piping hot coffee make you wince in discomfort? If you struggle with tooth sensitivity, drinking hot beverages or eating cold feeds can be a killjoy. Since tooth sensitivity can produce daily, significant discomfort, many people feel alarmed by these symptoms. Tooth sensitivity can be the result of damage to a tooth that requires repair by a dentist or other issues such as thinning tooth enamel or exposed roots of teeth.
Does tooth sensitivity mean my teeth are damaged?
Tooth sensitivity can mean your teeth are damaged. The only way to be certain is to schedule a checkup with our dentist. A checkup can reveal whether teeth are diseased by tooth decay or permanently damaged by previous dental injuries. Additionally, a quick checkup can determine if tooth sensitivity is more benign and simply requires lifestyle changes and a more vigilant approach to oral hygiene. If you have developed sensitive teeth recently or wonder if you might need dental work, it is best to schedule an appointment with our team to be sure.
What about other causes of tooth sensitivity?
When tooth sensitivity is caused by something that is relatively benign to oral health, patients might alleviate their symptoms by avoiding temperate foods and drinks and by using toothpastes geared for sensitive teeth. For instance, if thin enamel or exposed roots of teeth cause tooth sensitivity, letting piping hot coffee cool down for a few minutes can make a world of difference in one’s symptoms. Toothpastes formulated for sensitive teeth can help, too, by replenishing tooth enamel with lost minerals.
Practicing good oral hygiene is important no matter the cause of a person’s tooth sensitivity. Brushing should be done twice a day and teeth should be flossed once, every day. Proper brushing and flossing will help keep harmful substances from accumulating on teeth and the gum line.
Contact our office today at Aesthetic Dental Partners to schedule a dental checkup or to ask our staff questions.