Unexpected Things That Can Cause Sensitive Teeth and How to Deal With Them
There’s nothing worse than a tooth zinger. Okay, there are worse things, but we can all agree that tooth sensitivity is not fun and it doesn’t feel good. And what’s worse is that it always seems to happen when we are enjoying something we love, like that steaming hot cup of coffee on a Monday morning or that delicious bowl of decadent ice cream on a Saturday night while curled up on the couch.
Yet, there’s the thing: Many people don’t realize that sometimes our very own behaviors contribute to sensitive teeth. Yes, things like taking out your aggression with your toothbrush, overreliance on tooth-whitening products, and enjoying those energy drinks. All of those things can work against you.
So, in this article, we’re digging a bit deeper into those sensitive teeth culprits and what you can do to help make those zingers a thing of the past.
Brushing Too Hard
We alluded to this one earlier. It’s not uncommon for patients to tell us they think they need to brush super hard to remove plaque from their teeth. But that’s not the case. In fact, brushing too hard can actually do more harm than good. When you scrub with too much force, you can wear down your enamel. Once that outer layer thins out, the inner part of your tooth becomes more exposed, which is when those not-so-pretty zingers tend to show up.
You might notice signs like frayed toothbrush bristles, irritated-looking gums, or sensitivity that seems to be getting worse instead of better. If your brush looks worn out after just a few weeks, that’s often a clue you’re pressing too hard.
The fix is simple. Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and use gentle, small circles instead of scrubbing back and forth. Many Buffalo, MN, dentists also recommend holding your toothbrush like a pencil to avoid applying too much pressure. Trust us, these small changes can go a long way toward relieving tooth pain.
Whitening Products
Who doesn’t love a white smile? We all do. But the reality is that there is such a thing as over-whitening. Whitening strips and even some whitening toothpastes contain ingredients that can irritate the enamel and the nerves inside your teeth when used too frequently. That’s when sipping something hot or cold suddenly becomes uncomfortable.
Some sensitivity after whitening can be temporary and fade within a day or two. But, if the discomfort persists or worsens, your teeth may be asking for a break. Paying attention to how your teeth feel during and after treatment matters more than sticking to a routine.
Here are a few signs it’s time to pause and call your dentist.
- Sharp pain that lingers after eating or drinking
- Sensitivity that lasts more than a few days
- Gums that feel sore or look irritated
Gum Recession
Your gums do more than frame your smile. They act like a natural barrier that protects the roots of your teeth. When gums start to pull back, that protection weakens, and the more sensitive parts of the tooth become exposed. That’s often when people begin asking, “Why are my teeth sensitive?” or dealing with a sudden toothache.
Gum recession can occur for several reasons. Brushing too hard over time can wear away gum tissue. Grinding or clenching your teeth can also put extra pressure on both teeth and gums, leading to gradual changes. Even genetics can play a role in how your gums respond.
Treatment depends on how far the recession has progressed. Your Buffalo family dentistry team may suggest a special toothpaste for sensitivity, a custom nightguard if grinding is an issue, or deep cleanings to support gum health. In more advanced cases, procedures that help restore gum tissue may be discussed to protect your teeth moving forward.
Acidic Foods and Drinks
People sure do love their energy drinks. But energy drinks aren’t the only beverages that can be harmful to your teeth. Even that coffee you love so much (or that glass of wine when you’re relaxing or hanging out with friends) can wreak havoc on your beautiful smile, leaving you with tooth pain.
We love them too, but acidic foods and drinks can slowly wear down enamel, especially when you enjoy them often throughout the day. As that outer layer weakens, your teeth become more sensitive to hot, cold, and sweet foods. That’s when sipping your favorite drink can turn into an uncomfortable experience.
Some of the most common culprits include:
- Soda
- Citrus drinks like lemonade and orange juice
- Sports and energy drinks
A simple habit can make a difference. Try rinsing your mouth with water after having acidic drinks to help wash away residue. It’s also smart to wait about 30 minutes before brushing. Brushing right away can spread acid across your teeth and make enamel wear down even faster.
Hidden Cracks or Dental Work
Last but not least, let’s talk about how your dental work, or tiny, hidden cracks in your dental enamel, can leave you wincing. Even small cracks in your enamel or older dental work can cause tooth sensitivity. Fillings and crowns are meant to protect your teeth, but they aren’t meant to last forever. As such, they can wear down or loosen. When that happens, hot or cold temperatures can sneak in and irritate the inner part of the tooth.
You might notice discomfort when biting down or a quick jolt when eating certain foods. If that sounds familiar, it’s a good idea to schedule a dental visit. Catching the issue early can help prevent bigger problems and lead to faster tooth pain relief.
Are you battling sensitive teeth? Schedule a consultation with Dental Care Associates of Buffalo.
Though tooth sensitivity can’t always be avoided, there are some things we can do to lessen its intensity. So, if your sensitive teeth are becoming a bother, come in to see us. Schedule a consultation today with our family dentistry team. They will assess the situation and offer solutions to relieve your tooth pain.
