Sensitive Teeth Dentist in Toledo Ohio

Sensitive teeth can have a number of different causes, both natural and as a result of lifestyle. For example, some people that have thinner enamel (the outer layer of the tooth that protects it) naturally have more sensitive teeth than others. Enamel can be worn down from:

• Brushing your teeth too hard
• Using a hard toothbrush
• Grinding your teeth at night
• Regularly eating/drinking acidic foods and beverages

Sometimes, other conditions can lead to tooth sensitivity, such as with gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), which can cause acid to come up from the stomach and esophagus, potentially wearing down teeth over time. Conditions that cause frequent vomiting — including gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying) and bulimia — can also cause acid to wear down the enamel, leading to sensitive teeth.

Gum recession, in moderate to severe cases, can leave sections of the tooth exposed and unprotected, leading to sensitivity.

Tooth decay, broken teeth, chipped teeth, and worn-down fillings or crowns can leave the dentin of the tooth exposed, causing a localized sensitivity (such as in one corner of the mouth versus all of the teeth).
Teeth may be extra sensitive to hot or cold when exposed to extreme contrasting temperatures; eating or drinking something cold (such as ice cream) and then drinking or eating something hot (such as coffee) can cause pain, as well as the opposite (such as eating hot pizza and then drinking a cold soda).

The most common symptom of sensitive teeth is pain/discomfort, which can be described as a dull ache, a sharp stinging, or a bruise-like pain. People with sensitive teeth may have a response to certain triggers, possibly feeling this pain at the roots of the affected teeth. The most common triggers include:

• Hot foods and beverages
• Cold foods and beverages
• Cold air
• Sweet foods and beverages
• Acidic foods and beverages
• Cold water, especially during routine dental cleanings
• Brushing or flossing teeth
• Alcohol-based mouth rinses

Symptoms may come and go over time for no obvious reason, and can range from mild to intense.

Sensitive teeth can be a warning sign for a number of different dental problems, such as tooth decay, cracked, chipped or broken teeth, or gum disease. If you experience symptoms of cavities or potential root damage, you should make an appointment with your dentist so you can get treatment quickly and prevent complications. These symptoms may include:

• Spontaneous tooth pain that occurs without cause
• Tooth sensitivity localized to one tooth
• Sharper pain instead of milder pain
• Staining on the surface of your teeth
• Pain when biting down or chewing

Sensitive teeth may indicate an underlying dental problem, such as tooth decay, oral inflammation, or infection. If this symptom is not brought to the attention of a dentist, it could worsen, developing into a much more serious condition that is more difficult and more expensive to treat. Do not delay care; if you have sensitive teeth, schedule an appointment with an experienced dentist today!
 
The team of dental professionals at Great Smiles Family Dentistry is dedicated to helping you with your sensitive teeth, and any problems that may be causing it. Call us today to book an appointment with our sensitive teeth treatment specialist, or visit our clinic conveniently located at 4646 Nantuckett Drive, Toledo, OH 43623. We look forward to serving you! We serve patients from Toledo OH, Oregon OH, Ottawa Hills OH, Perrysburg OH, Woodhurst OH, Sylvania OH, and Shoreland OH.