Tooth sensitivity is commonly recognized by discomfort triggered by hot or cold foods such as ice cream or soup. While pain caused by hot or cold stimuli might be evidence of a cavity, this symptom is also related to sensitive teeth. What exactly are sensitive teeth? Sensitive teeth occur when the enamel, the protective layer of the tooth, is thinner. 

Tooth sensitivity may be caused by brushing with too much force, using a hard toothbrush, and eating acidic foods and beverages. These are common causes of sensitive teeth, but other habits could also be breaking down your enamel. Here are five surprising reasons you have tooth sensitivity. 

You Grind Your Teeth

It’s easy to see why grinding your teeth can damage and wear down your enamel. Consistent grinding of the teeth can break through the enamel down to the dentin, the middle layer of the tooth. The dentin is connected to your nerves and, when exposed, will cause considerable discomfort. The best way to prevent teeth grinding, or bruxism, is to speak with your dentist about getting a custom-made mouth guard. 

You Use Too Much Mouthwash or Whitening Toothpaste

Mouthwash and whitening toothpaste sometimes contain ingredients that do more harm to your teeth than good. In particular, mouthwash can contain alcohol and other agents that wear down the enamel or harm the already exposed dentin. Neutral fluoride rinses or a simple brushing and flossing regimen are suitable replacements for mouthwash. On the other hand, whitening toothpaste often contains whitening agents that hurt sensitive teeth. Speak with your dentist about the best toothpaste for your teeth. 

You Have Excessive Plaque

Using too many products on your teeth too often can cause sensitivity, and so can using nothing. Good dental hygiene, including flossing and brushing, prevents plaque buildup; too much plaque can eat away at the enamel and ruin that protective layer. The best way to eliminate plaque is by brushing and flossing twice daily with regular dentist visits. 

You Have Gum Disease

Gum disease is characterized by receding gums and more tooth and tooth root exposure. Because gum disease creates a gap between the tooth and the gum, that space makes an ideal area for bacteria to grow. Without attention, gum disease can eventually lead to tooth loss. The first indicator of gum disease is tooth sensitivity or noticeable exposure of more of the tooth. 

You Eat Acidic Foods and Beverages

As mentioned previously, excessive consumption of acidic foods and beverages can lead to sensitive teeth. Like other habits mentioned in this list, acidic foods eat away at the enamel and protective layer of your teeth. Examples of acidic foods include lemon, grapefruit, kiwi, pickles, sports drinks, and orange juice. These foods can also cause pain when teeth are already sensitive. 

If your teeth continue to be sensitive after dental hygiene and diet changes, book an appointment with your langley dentist with one of our dentists at iSmile Dental in Langley. 

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