It is extremely common to feel sudden discomfort on your teeth when you drink a cold glass of water or juice. A similar feeling may also happen with hot, sweet or acidic drinks. This means you have what is commonly called as “sensitive teeth”.
There are two types of tooth sensitivity:
1.Dentinal Sensitivity: is caused when the dentin or middle layer of the tooth is exposed because the enamel that used to cover it gets thinner over time. Dentin is made up of pores or tubules and when these are exposed to hot or cold temperatures your nerve branches cause sensitivity Some causes of dentinal sensitivity are:
- Tartar build up.
- Cavities that haven’t been treated.
- A crack on an old filling.
- Brushing too hard.
- Excessive tooth whitening.
2. Pulpal Sensitivity: occurs when there is damage in the center of a tooth, which contains a pulp of blood vessels and nerves. It happens only on a single tooth. Some causes of pulpal sensitivity are:
- A cracked tooth.
- Tooth decay.
- A deep filling.
- Old bacteria leaking fillings.
- Excessive clenching.
If you experience any of these discomforts you might be suffering from sensitive teeth. Our dentist in Glendale, CA might be able to help you!
Prevention
Preventing sensitive teeth is very simple. You must maintain good oral hygiene, proper hygiene is what will keep your gums healthy and will prevent them from receding. Careful brushing and flossing will keep your gums pink and healthy. Over brushing or brushing too hard can damage gums and make them recede. If this happens the dentin will be exposed and cause your teeth to be sensitive.
Treatment
What our dentists in Glendale can do for you at Pacific Dental Care:
If you have not been able to get rid of your sensitive teeth using in-house treatments like a special toothpaste or brushing carefully, this is what our dentist in Glendale can do to make you feel better: