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Tooth sensitivity can make eating and drinking certain foods and beverages painful. If you experience discomfort when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods, it’s likely due to tooth sensitivity. At Wallacia Dental, we’re here to help you understand what causes sensitivity and how to manage it.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

There are several potential causes of tooth sensitivity, including:

• Worn Enamel: Enamel is the protective outer layer of your teeth, and when it wears down due to brushing too hard or acidic foods, it exposes the underlying dentin, which is more sensitive.

• Gum Recession: When gums recede, the roots of your teeth become exposed. These roots are not covered by enamel and can cause discomfort when exposed to temperature changes.

• Tooth Decay: Cavities can lead to increased sensitivity in affected areas as they allow bacteria to reach deeper layers of the tooth.

• Cracked Teeth: Cracks in your teeth can expose nerves, leading to sensitivity to temperature or pressure.

• Teeth Grinding: Bruxism (teeth grinding) can wear down enamel and cause tooth sensitivity over time.
  
  

How to Prevent and Manage Tooth Sensitivity

• Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Brushing with a hard toothbrush can wear down enamel and cause gum recession. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing motions to protect your teeth and gums.

• Switch to a Toothpaste for Sensitive Teeth: Special toothpaste for sensitive teeth contains ingredients that help block the nerve endings in your teeth, providing relief from discomfort.

• Avoid Acidic Foods and Beverages: Foods like citrus, soda, and wine can erode enamel. Limit your intake of acidic foods and drink water afterward to rinse away acids.

• Wear a Mouthguard at Night: If you grind your teeth at night, a custom mouthguard can protect your teeth from further damage.

• Seek Professional Treatment: If sensitivity persists, it may be due to an underlying issue like tooth decay or gum disease. At Wallacia Dental, we can recommend treatments like fluoride applications, dental sealants, or root canals to alleviate the pain and address the cause.
  
  

When to See a Dentist

If your tooth sensitivity is severe or doesn’t improve with over-the-counter solutions, it's important to schedule a visit to Wallacia Dental. Our team can identify the cause of your sensitivity and recommend the best course of action to restore comfort to your smile.