Reviewed by Dr. Matthew Young, DDS
Reading time: four minutes.
Has a sip of ice water or a bite of ice cream suddenly sent a sharp pain through your teeth? If you’ve never experienced tooth sensitivity before, it can be quite a shock.
But don’t worry – you’re not alone! Sudden tooth sensitivity is a common problem, and in this blog, we will help you understand why it happens and what you can do about it.
Table of Contents
- What Causes Sudden Tooth Sensitivity?
- How to Get Relief from Tooth Sensitivity
- Your Dentist in San Francisco, CA
- FAQ
Key Takeaway
Sudden tooth sensitivity can often be narrowed down to common issues like enamel wear, gum recession, or tooth damage. Addressing these problems promptly with proper care and professional guidance can effectively manage sensitivity and protect your smile.
What Causes Sudden Tooth Sensitivity?
Your teeth have a protective outer layer called tooth enamel. Underneath lies dentin, a porous layer with tiny tubes (dentinal tubules) leading to the tooth’s nerve.
When enamel wears down or gums recede, these tubules become exposed, allowing stimuli to trigger the nerve and cause pain.
These are the most common causes of sensitive teeth:
- Enamel erosion: Acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, sodas, wine, and even some healthy options like tomatoes and pickles, gradually dissolve enamel. Brushing too hard with a hard-bristled toothbrush can also accelerate this erosion process.
- Gum recession: As gum disease progresses or if you brush too vigorously, your gums can pull back from your teeth, exposing the sensitive root surfaces. Unlike the crown of your tooth, the tooth roots lack protective enamel, making them vulnerable to stimuli.
- Tooth decay: When bacteria break down sugars in your mouth, they produce acids that eat away at tooth enamel. If this decay isn’t treated, it creates cavities (holes) that can reach the dentin and expose the nerve.
- Cracked or fractured teeth: Biting down on hard objects, old injuries, or even large fillings can cause cracks or fractures in your teeth. These tiny openings provide a direct path for triggers to reach the tooth’s nerve.
- Worn fillings: Over time, fillings can weaken, chip, or break, exposing the dentin underneath and allowing irritants to enter the tooth.
- Teeth whitening: While whitening your teeth can brighten your smile, some products contain chemicals that can temporarily irritate the nerves and increase sensitivity.
- Recent dental work: Procedures like fillings, crowns, root canals, or tooth extraction can cause temporary inflammation around the teeth and gums, leading to sensitivity that usually subsides as the area heals.
- Other factors: Habits like teeth grinding (bruxism), crowded or overlapping teeth (which can make cleaning difficult), and even certain medical conditions like acid reflux can contribute to enamel erosion and sensitivity.
How to Get Relief from Tooth Sensitivity
- Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush: Brush gently in a circular motion, not back and forth.
- Use sensitivity-reducing toothpaste: These contain ingredients that block the dentinal tubules or desensitize the nerve endings. Look for brands with potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride.
- Fluoride treatments: Your dentist can apply fluoride to strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.
- Mouth guard: If teeth grinding is the culprit, a custom mouth guard can protect your teeth from further damage.
- Gum grafting: If gum recession is severe, a gum graft can help cover exposed roots.
- Root canal: If sensitivity is caused by a deep cavity or infection, a root canal may be necessary.
When to See Your Dentist About Sensitive Teeth
If your sensitivity is severe, persistent, or affecting a single tooth, it’s important to see your dentist. They can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the best treatment options for you.
Your Dentist in San Francisco, CA
Sudden tooth sensitivity can result from various factors, but it is manageable with proper care and treatment.
At Post Street Dental Group, we provide comprehensive dental care for all your oral health needs. Our team of experienced dentists in San Francisco, CA, can help you address your sudden tooth sensitivity and restore your smile’s health and beauty.
If you are searching for a dentist in San Francisco, CA, or the best dentist near me, we can help! Call (415) 986-4534 to schedule an appointment or complete the online booking form.
FAQ
Yes, tooth sensitivity can go away, especially if the cause is identified and treated. Using desensitizing toothpaste, improving oral hygiene habits, and avoiding trigger foods and drinks can help reduce sensitivity.
You should be worried about sensitive teeth if it is severe, persistent, or localized to a single tooth. These symptoms could indicate a more serious issue, such as tooth decay, a cracked tooth, or gum disease.
Vitamin D and calcium are crucial for maintaining strong tooth enamel. A lack of these nutrients can weaken enamel, increasing sensitivity.