Why Are My Teeth so Sensitive?

With warm weather quickly approaching, many of us are excited to enjoy our favourite summer treats, including ice cream. But for people with sensitive teeth, the thought of biting into a cold dessert is painful on its own. While sensitive teeth can be annoying, you shouldn’t have to avoid the foods you love. 

Tooth sensitivity is extremely common among patients and can be experienced whenever your teeth are exposed to cold foods or air. So, what may be the cause of your sensitive teeth?

Overbrushing

Most people are surprised to learn that their teeth are sensitive due to overbrushing. There is such a thing as brushing your teeth too long or too hard to the point where your enamel weakens. If you find that the bristles on your toothbrush wear out easily, you’re likely brushing too hard. Try switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush instead and spend no more than two minutes on your teeth each time you brush. 

Grinding Your Teeth

You may not realize you’re doing it but grinding your teeth while sleeping is quite common. Over time, your enamel will wear down, exposing the middle layer of your teeth called dentin. This part of your teeth is more sensitive and is most likely the reason why you’re experiencing pain whenever you eat hot or cold foods. If you think you may be grinding your teeth, talk to your dental professional about getting a mouthguard to wear at night. 

Undiagnosed Dental Issues

Your sensitive teeth may be a warning sign that there’s a much bigger problem going on inside your mouth. Even those who are most diligent with their daily dental care can develop issues such as receding gums, gingivitis, chipped enamel and cavities. All of these dental issues can be related to tooth sensitivity, which is why it’s important to book regular visits with your dentist. 

Are you experiencing tooth sensitivity? Be sure to ask us about the various options we can provide for sensitivity relief in order to enjoy eating your favourite foods again. Our team will work hard to determine the cause of your sensitivity in order to come up with the most effective treatment plan for you.