What Are the Causes of Sensitive Teeth?
Millions of adults are affected by pain when eating hot or cold foods or breathing cold air. This sensitivity is caused by the gums receding or the loss of cementum, which is a thin layer of calcified tissue that acts as a protective covering around the tooth root. When the gums recede, the root and nerves of the tooth are exposed. Nerves react to cold, heat and pressure by causing pain. Eventually, as gums recede or enamel on the teeth wears down, tooth sensitivity is more apparent.
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Enamel Loss
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There are a number of reasons for enamel loss. Acids in the mouth can sometimes cause erosion. They can come from foods and beverages, such as sugary or sour candy (usually dusted with a sour, acidic powder), carbonated beverages and lemons. They may also come from acid reflux or acids left behind after vomiting.
Even brushing the teeth improperly can cause the problem. The friction of brushing the teeth too hard can wear away enamel over time, and brushing teeth from side to side can wear the cementum away. The friction of grinding teeth is another way enamel is lost.
Decay
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Decalcification, or excessive plaque on the teeth, causes decay. Decalcification may come from improper care of the mouth, or by the constant contact of brackets in orthodontic braces. Over time, decalcification causes cavities.
One of the first signs of decay is the appearance of white spots in the tooth enamel. Cavitiy sufferers complain of tooth pain, fever, a bad taste in the mouth and chills, and often have bad breath. When the enamel is violated, the teeth become sensitive to pressure, heat and cold.
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Tooth Abscess
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If a tooth infection goes untreated, it can fill with pus and become an abscess. Typically, abscesses are caused by poor dental hygeine and decay. The infection causes swelling and irritation of the gums, which allow the nerves to be affected.
Whitening Products
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Many people notice tooth sensitivity after using products to whiten teeth. Typically, these contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide and can cause irritation of the soft tissues. This usually occurs in the earlier stages of treatment and will go away after treatment has stopped.
Gum Disease
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Gingivitis and periodontitis cause gums to pull away from the teeth. This causes the root and nerves to be exposed, causing sensitivity in the teeth. If untreated, pus pockets form and gums, bones and tissues are destroyed.
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