Tooth sensitivity to cold weather and cold food or drinks affects many people. It causes people to avoid eating their favorite sweet foods, drinking that glass of wine and even smiling just because they’re outdoors! With Dr. Vann’s help, it is possible to get down to the root cause of your tooth sensitivity. Here are a couple of explanations for your sensitive teeth.
Worn Enamel
The most common reason for tooth sensitivity is worn enamel. The enamel of your teeth protects tiny nerve endings. When the enamel is deteriorated, these nerve endings are exposed through these tiny tubes in the dentin where they reach the nerve endings. When the nerve endings are touched by cold, acidic, or sugary food and drinks, you will feel pain in those areas. Reasons for having corroded enamel include:
- brushing too hard with a hard-bristle toothbrush
- consuming highly acidic cooking and refreshments
- busted fillings or broken teeth
- gum recession
- teeth grinding
Using a soft-bristle brush, avoiding acidic foods, repairing broken teeth and fillings right away and wearing nighttime mouth guards can help to prevent further enamel damage.
Recent Dental Work
Another possible explanation for tooth sensitivity is recent dental work. Having some tooth sensitivity after dental treatments is common but should also be temporary. It’s important to talk to your dentist if tooth sensitivity continues in the affected area for a prolonged period when there was none before.
Some people know all-to-well that sharp, stinging feeling in their teeth. Tooth sensitivity can be a disappointment during the winter months but you shouldn’t let it! Dr. Vann’s fluoride treatments will strengthen your tooth enamel and reduce the pain caused by tooth sensitivity. Make an appointment today with Vann Family Dental at (980) 819-8040 or request an appointment online.