Sensitive teeth are a painful and frustrating condition. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), up to 12.3% of Americans experience tooth sensitivity. The discomfort often arises when the tooth enamel wears down or the gums recede, exposing the sensitive layers. Tooth sensitivity is sharp pain or discomfort when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.

Tooth sensitivity can make it challenging to enjoy everyday activities like eating or drinking. Your tooth sensitivity can be occasional or ongoing, depending on its cause. When you consult a dentist seeking a remedy for sensitive teeth, they could recommend various effective treatments and services. They include desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride varnishes, and dental sealants.

Understanding your options can help you take control of your dental health. Your oral health is a sensitive part of your well-being. Therefore, you will need expert services to achieve the desired outcomes. At Los Angeles Advanced Dentistry, we offer safe and reliable dental services for our Los Angeles, CA, clients.

An Overview of Teeth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem characterized by pain or discomfort during normal chewing or biting. Pain and discomfort may arise from consuming hot or cold foods, acidic beverages, or even through a forceful brushing of the teeth. For many people, sensitivity in the teeth can impact the quality of life.

The tooth enamel protects it against changes in temperature, acids, and mechanical abrasion. Below the enamel is the dentin, which is softer and more porous. Dentin is a soft, porous tissue that contains microscopic tubules leading to the pulp. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels. You experience pain and sensitivity when the enamel is worn down or when the gums recede, exposing the softer dentin lying.

Inside the dentin are tiny tubules that lead to nerve endings located within the pulp. Aggressive changes in temperature or pH can trigger these nerve endings. Because the dentin is porous, external stimuli can travel through the tubules and reach the nerve endings in the pulp, resulting in sharp pain or discomfort.

The symptoms of tooth sensitivity that you should look out for include:

Sudden Sharp Pain

A common symptom of sensitive teeth is sudden, sharp pain when eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods. The pain can strike without warning and is often intense. The pain occurs because the exposed dentin responds to stimuli, causing discomfort.

Pain While Brushing or Flossing

People with sensitive teeth may experience discomfort when brushing their teeth or flossing. The pain results from the bristles of the toothbrush or the pressure from floss touching the exposed tooth surface. The inner part of the tooth is more sensitive than the enamel-covered areas. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or flossing too aggressively can worsen this discomfort.

Pain From Extreme Temperatures

Another indication of sensitive teeth is pain caused by extreme temperatures. Drinking cold beverages or eating hot foods may cause sudden pain or discomfort. The pain may linger shortly after consuming these items.

Pain After Dental Procedures

People with sensitive teeth may experience heightened sensitivity after undergoing specific dental procedures. The procedures could include teeth cleanings, fillings, or whitening treatments. These procedures can cause temporary irritation to the nerves in the teeth, and the pain may last for a few hours or a couple of days. However, individuals with chronic sensitivity may notice that these procedures worsen their symptoms.

Discomfort When Eating Certain Foods

Certain foods can trigger discomfort in people with sensitive teeth. Very acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes can irritate exposed dentin and cause pain. Sweet foods or beverages can trigger sensitivity due to the sugars interacting with the exposed nerve endings.

Causes of Sensitive Teeth

Most individuals experience tooth sensitivity at some point in their lives. Understanding the root cause of the problem can help you find the appropriate ways to relieve the sensitive teeth. Common causes of sensitive teeth include:

Enamel Erosion

The enamel is the protective outer layer of your teeth that shields them from outside conditions. Over time, the enamel can erode due to factors like improper brushing techniques or teeth grinding. Frequent consumption of acidic drinks can speed up enamel erosion. When enamel is worn down, it exposes the dentin, which is more sensitive and vulnerable to temperature changes and pressure.

Gum Recession

Gum recession occurs when the gums pull back from the teeth. Common causes of gum recession include periodontal disease, aging, or aggressive brushing. Gum recession exposes the roots of the teeth. The roots contain nerve endings triggered by temperature changes or sweet foods, leading to tooth sensitivity.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Grinding your teeth can lead to wear and tear on your enamel. Bruxism is a common issue for people who experience stress or anxiety, and it often happens during sleep. The constant pressure from grinding can cause the enamel to thin and expose the dentin. You could experience sensitivity if the dentin is exposed.

Cracked or Chipped Tooth

A cracked or chipped tooth can expose the inner layers of the tooth. The dentin and the pulp are the inner parts of the tooth, which are sensitive to changes in temperature and pressure. Even in cases where a tooth crack is invisible, it can trigger sensitivity. Cracked teeth can result from trauma, chewing on hard foods, or a history of teeth grinding.

Dental Procedures

Specific dental treatments, like fillings or teeth whitening, can cause temporary tooth sensitivity. For example, a filling that does not fit well can leave small spaces where bacteria can enter, leading to pain. Similarly, teeth whitening procedures can irritate the nerves inside the tooth, causing heightened sensitivity.

Poor Dietary Habits

What you eat can affect the sensitivity of your teeth. Acidic foods and beverages like citrus fruits can wear down enamel over time. Additionally, sugary foods can contribute to tooth decay, leading to further dentin exposure. Eating habits such as frequent snacking or consuming acidic drinks without rinsing your teeth can increase the chances of enamel erosion.

Tooth Decay and Cavities

Tooth decay or cavities can also lead to sensitive teeth. Cavities occur when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that break down the enamel, creating tiny holes or cavities in the tooth. If the decay is deep enough, it can reach the dentin or pulp, leading to tooth sensitivity.

Use of Certain Medications

Some medications, especially those that cause dry mouth, can increase the risk of tooth sensitivity. Saliva helps protect the teeth from decay and sensitivity. When the mouth is dry, it cannot neutralize acids and bacteria effectively. The medications that cause a dry mouth increase the likelihood of enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Sensitive Teeth

When you consult your dentist with sensitive teeth, they may recommend various treatment options. The specific type of treatment that suits your case may depend on the cause of your tooth sensitivity. They include:

Fluoride Treatment for Sensitive Teeth

Fluoride treatment is a common and effective solution for individuals with sensitive teeth. Sensitivity often occurs when the protective enamel on teeth wears down. A worn-down enamel exposes the underlying dentin, which contains tiny nerve endings. Fluoride remineralizes the enamel, making it more decay-resistant and reducing sensitivity.

Your dentist can apply fluoride treatments in a dental office or recommend at-home products. The dentist applies a more potent fluoride gel or varnish to the teeth in a dental office. The therapy can help remineralize the enamel and provide a protective barrier against external triggers.

At-home fluoride treatments are also effective for managing sensitivity. They include fluoride toothpaste or mouth rinses containing fluoride. In addition to reducing sensitivity, fluoride helps prevent cavities, further protecting vulnerable teeth. While fluoride treatments are safe, you should only use them under the guidance of a dentist.

If you have other underlying oral health issues, consult a dentist before at-home fluoride treatment. Regular fluoride treatments and good oral hygiene practices can provide long-term relief for sensitive teeth.

Dental Bonding for Sensitive Teeth

Dental bonding treats tooth sensitivity, primarily when the discomfort results from exposed dentin. The procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the affected tooth. The resin adheres to the tooth's surface, and the dentist cures it using a special light to make it durable and functional.

Tooth sensitivity arises when enamel, the hardest tissue in the body, wears down to expose the underlying dentin. Dental bonding, a restorative procedure, is when the exposed area is covered, and a pain barrier is provided. Unlike other practices, dental bonding is usually performed in one visit.

Dental bonding improves the aesthetics of your teeth by covering any imperfections. Your dentist may recommend bonding for chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth. Dental bonding is a much more budget-friendly restorative dental procedure. With proper care, the results achieved from this procedure will be satisfactory for several years.

You must consult a dentist to determine if dental bonding is the proper tooth sensitivity remedy for you. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices help maintain the effectiveness of the bonding.

Root Canal for Sensitive Teeth

Your teeth can become sensitive when the nerves in the dentin and pulp are exposed to extreme temperatures or other external conditions. Most instances of sensitive teeth are treatable using desensitizing toothpaste and dental bonding. However, there are instances when a root canal is necessary to ease the pain of sensitive teeth. These instances include:

  • Prolonged sensitivity to temperature change. Sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks is sometimes temporary. The discomfort and pain, in this case, go away after a few hours. However, your dentist can recommend a root canal if the discomfort persists even after using a desensitizing toothpaste.
  • Tooth discoloration. The yellow or brownish appearance on the tooth enamel often suggests staining. However, there are times when pulp damage can cause discoloration. Under these circumstances, the enamel appears grey or dark brown.
  • Chronic throbbing pain. Chronic or throbbing pain from sensitive teeth can significantly impact your life. If the pain doesn't go away with over-the-counter pain relievers, your dentist can recommend a root canal.

A root canal involves the removal of an inflamed or infected pulp. Your dentist will clean the inner tooth before sealing it with a filling or crown.

Professional Teeth Cleaning

Maintaining good oral hygiene is necessary to prevent tooth decay and other complications that could cause tooth sensitivity. It involves brushing and flossing regularly using the proper techniques. However, there are instances when professional teeth cleaning is necessary for sensitive teeth treatment.

Professional teeth cleaning involves scraping off the plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and cleaning the gums. It helps prevent bacteria buildup that could erode the tooth enamel and worsen the sensitivity.

Gum Grafting for Sensitive Teeth

You can manage the pain of sensitive teeth through a gum grafting procedure. Dentists often recommend the procedure for gum recession. When the gum tissue around the tooth recedes, it exposes the tooth root, which causes sensitivity.

The gum grafting procedure involves using tissue from other parts of the mouth and placing them in areas affected by recession. The procedure allows the covering of the sensitive, exposed roots of teeth.

The initial step of gum grafting involves administering local anesthesia to ease pain during the procedure. The oral surgeon stitches the gum tissue graft while the area is still numbed. The newly grafted tissue heals by integrating into existing gum tissue with time.

Gum grafting reduces sensitivity and decreases the likelihood of future gum recession. Since the gum needs time for recovery, proper care is required. Your dentist will recommend consuming soft foods and caring for the mouth to avoid infections.

Dental Sealants for Sensitive Teeth

When tooth sensitivity results from gum erosion or deep grooves around the teeth, your dentist can recommend dental sealants. These are thin coatings applied on the chewing surface of your back teeth.

Dental sealants act as barriers that prevent bacteria and food particles from settling into the tooth grooves. Dental sealants help reduce discomfort for individuals with sensitive teeth. Sealants benefit individuals with worn enamel or deep fissures that expose the dentin. Sealants can provide relief and protect the teeth from future decay by covering these areas.

The process of applying dental sealants is quick and painless. The dentist cleans the tooth, applies an acidic solution to help the sealant bond, and then applies the sealant. Sealants are a preventive measure and can last for several years. However, regular dental check-ups are essential to ensure they remain intact.

Home Remedies to Ease Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity causes severe discomfort. Before you visit your dentist for a long-term remedy, you can explore the following home remedies to ease and prevent sensitive teeth pain:

  • Saltwater rinse. A warm saltwater rinse can help reduce tooth sensitivity by soothing inflamed gums. You can use this method of tooth sensitivity relief by mixing a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and swishing it around your mouth for 30 seconds. A saltwater rinse also helps control bacteria, promoting oral health.
  • Desensitizing toothpaste. The toothpaste contains compounds like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride, which block nerve pathways in the teeth. Regular use of this type of toothpaste can reduce sensitivity. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush when brushing your sensitive teeth to avoid further irritation.
  • Coconut oil pulling. This ancient remedy reduces plaque buildup, bacteria, and inflammation in the gums. You use this remedy by swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes, then spit it out. The practice can help decrease the discomfort caused by tooth sensitivity.
  • Peppermint Tea Bags. Another option you can explore for sensitive teeth relief is peppermint tea. The product has soothing properties that can help reduce pain. After steeping a peppermint tea bag, let it cool and place it on the sensitive area of your tooth or gums for a few minutes. The remedy can reduce irritation and bring relief from sensitivity.
  • Avoid acidic foods. Acidic foods and drinks can worsen tooth sensitivity. Reducing the intake of these items can give your teeth time to heal and prevent further damage to the enamel. If you consume acidic foods, rinse your mouth with water to neutralize the acids.
  • Good oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene helps relieve tooth sensitivity by reducing the buildup of bacteria that can irritate the gums and teeth. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste strengthens tooth enamel, protecting it from decay and reducing sensitivity. Flossing removes food particles and plaque between teeth, preventing gum recession. Receding gums expose sensitive tooth roots.

Find Expert Dental Services Near Me

Sensitive teeth cause pain and discomfort. Individuals who experience this problem find it challenging to enjoy daily activities like eating and drinking. You may have sensitive teeth if you experience pain when consuming cold or hot foods and drinks. Additionally, you can experience sharp pain after dental procedures or when brushing or flossing.

If you experience these symptoms, you must consult with your dentist. The dentist will examine the condition to determine its causes and find effective treatments. Before your dental appointment, you can use a saltwater rinse to ease the pain. Depending on the cause of your tooth sensitivity, your dentist can recommend fluoride treatments, root canals, dental sealants, or gum grafting.

Managing sensitive teeth can significantly affect your comfort and quality of life. If you seek treatment for tooth sensitivity in Los Angeles, CA, you will benefit from our services at Los Angeles Advanced Dentistry. Call us at 310-361-2080 to book your appointment.