Here at Classic Denture Center, your denturist in Portland OR Tanya Poleon has seen just about every mouth complaint out there! That said, one she hears about quite often is tooth sensitivity. This is probably due to the fact that many of her patients are getting new dentures because of pre-existing oral conditions, many of which cause sensitivity.

In any case, sensitivity of the teeth is highly common.

Most everyone has experienced a tooth (or more than one) that is a bit sensitive to hot, cold, or chewing, it’s just a part of life… But sometimes this discomfort can point towards a condition or problem within your mouth, making it a good idea to have things checked out as soon as you can.

So What is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity, otherwise known as dentin hypersensitivity, is a pain associated with your teeth when they are exposed to certain conditions. Some of these conditions include:

• Hot liquids or foods
• Cold liquids or foods
• Overly sweet liquids or foods
• Acidic liquids or foods

In some cases, you might even experience tooth sensitivity when your teeth are exposed to the cold air.

This sensitivity occurs when the outer coating of the tooth (enamel) is chipped, cracked, or weakened from decay or other factors. This weak outer layer causes the softer dentin beneath to be exposed. You might not know it, but dentin is a porous material that contains many little channels running through it. These channels run to the sensitive nerve-containing pulp at the center of your tooth. This is why these external conditions might cause momentary sharp pain when exposed to hot or cold.

What are the common causes of sensitive teeth?

The most common underlying causes of having sensitive teeth are:

• Using a hard toothbrush that has stiff bristles. This can wear the enamel down.
• Using a toothpaste that is too abrasive.
• Having a cracked or chipped tooth in your mouth, exposing the dentin.
• Grinding your teeth can also gradually wear down the enamel from friction between the teeth.
• Having gum disease or gum recession can also cause sensitivity due to the gum receding from the base of the tooth causing the enamel to thin, the dentin.
• Foods that are acidic can also cause the enamel to weaken.

The above are just a few of the causes behind your sensitive teeth, but thankfully there are some things you can do about it!

How Can I Treat Tooth Sensitivity?  

The first step in treating sensitive teeth is to get a fluoride toothpaste to ease the pain. Along with that step, it is also a good idea to swap your current toothbrush for one with soft bristles. Using a fluoride rinse or gel is another great idea, and so is avoiding the foods that you know will cause you pain. In some cases, getting a mouthguard is a good idea for those who grind their teeth.

Here are a few treatments that might be necessary for your sensitive teeth:

• Fixing or sealing any cracks or chips in the teeth
• Undergoing a gum graft to protect the root of the affected tooth
• Treating gum disease
• Having bonding applied to the exposed root
• Root canal treatment
• Extractions or implants if the tooth has too much damage

If you have questions about tooth sensitivity or any services we provide, your denturist in Portland Oregon, Tanya Poleon, would love to help! Her main goal is to help you keep your smile exactly the way you want it to be! Contact us today!