No Cavities, but My Teeth are Sensitive

1. Gum recession:

When the gum tissue around a tooth recedes, the root becomes exposed.  The root is a very sensitive part of the tooth that when exposed to cold, hot, or sweets it can create sensitivity.   Solution: An immediate answer to this problem is  the use of desensitizing products such as toothpaste (Sensodyne) and mouth rinse (ACT) which can help take the edge off the sharpness felt in the tooth.  These products take a few weeks to work.   A long term solution may be bonding or gingival graft (surgically placing gum tissue)  over the exposed root.  These are procedures  in which we simply cover the exposed root causing sensitivity.

2. Teeth Whitening Products:

These days teeth whitening products are in virtually every type of product we use to keep our teeth healthy.  They are in mouth rinses, toothpaste, gum, etc.  The active ingredients that whiten our teeth can leave us with sensitivity after use of these products.  Solution: Very simple, use products without the whitening additive or at least cut back.

3. Grinding/Clenching:

Grinding and clenching your teeth can lead to gum recession which can lead to sensitivity.  Grinding and clenching also causes trauma to the tooth and can make it hypersensitive to hot, cold, sweets, etc. This is because the nerve inside the tooth becomes inflamed from the trauma.    Solution: Wear a night guard when you sleep and be conscious of keeping your teeth apart during the day.

4. Rough Teeth Cleaning:

Some times a hygienist or dentist can be a little overzealous when cleaning a patients teeth.  If a protective layer (cementum) is scrapped off of the roots of your teeth, you may experience sensitivity for a few weeks until that protective layer is reformed.  Solution: Wait it out, it could take a few weeks to improve.  Also,  mention to the provider who cleaned your teeth what your experience was like afterwards. We hope these offered solutions help with that annoying tooth sensitivity that just will not go away.   But always remember to keep up with your regular dental check ups and if sensitivity persists for longer than 2 weeks let your dental provider know!]]>