Does a sip of an ice-cold drink or a spoonful of hot soup cause you pain or discomfort? It could be a sign that you have sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity is a common concern, occurring in approximately one in eight adults. It develops over time when the tooth enamel wears down or thins. 

Signs Of Tooth Sensitivity

Experiencing pain while consuming cold or hot foods and drinks is not the only symptom of tooth sensitivity. Teeth exposed to anything sweet or acidic can also trigger a sharp pain. Tooth sensitivity can also only occur in one tooth - you don’t need to feel pain in every tooth to have sensitive teeth. 

What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

Tooth sensitivity can be caused by many different factors including:

• Gum recession due to age or improper tooth brushing
• Drinking acidic beverages like soda
• Tooth grinding 
• Brushing with abrasive toothpaste, brushing incorrectly or brushing more than three times a day 
• Gum disease
• A chipped or fractured tooth 
• Dental treatments such as teeth whitening, professional dental cleanings, having braces put on or getting a filling placed

Ways To Treat Sensitive Teeth

If you notice you have tooth sensitivity, don't ignore it as this can lead to more serious problems. To treat this condition, we suggest visiting a dentist. They can give you tips on how to reduce your sensitivity or perform in-office treatment on your teeth.

Here are some professional and at-home treatments you can implement to treat tooth sensitivity:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with low abrasive toothpaste
• Brush correctly and don't overbrush
• Use a toothpaste specially formulated to reduce sensitivity
• A dental professional can also:

• Prescribe a high concentration fluoride toothpaste to strengthen the tooth surface
• Apply a fluoride varnish on the sensitive areas
• Place a dental restoration, such as a filling, to build up the areas that have lost enamel

Your dentist will determine a solution that works best for you. It’s always wise to seek professional help as they can determine if your symptoms are a result of something more serious. 

The good news is that sensitive teeth are easy to treat. Book an appointment at one of the Dental Image Therapy Centres today. You can find us at either Garden City Shopping Centre or St. Vital Centre.