Common Causes of Sensitive Teeth

Find Out What Causes Tooth Sensitivity

If you have sensitive teeth, you’re not alone. Many people find themselves asking the question “why are my teeth sensitive?”. Twin Aspen Dental Center wants to make you aware of what causes sensitive teeth so you can change your habits or receive the proper treatment. Tooth sensitivity can be uncomfortable and is certainly not something to ignore. Whether your teeth hurt from drinking an ice-cold beverage, brushing, or flossing, we’re here to help. Read over these reasons for sensitive teeth, and contact us to schedule an appointment to get to the root of the problem.

10 Reasons Your Teeth May Be Sensitive

Whether you have a tooth sensitive to cold or a tooth sensitive to heat, one of these reasons may be to blame. If your teeth feel sensitive at times, check out these common reasons for it:

1. Brushing Too Hard – If you find yourself asking “Why do my teeth hurt when I brush them?”, you may be brushing with too much force or using a hard-bristled toothbrush. Doing so can wear down the protective layers of your teeth. Use a toothbrush with softer bristles and practice gentler brushing.
2. Eating Acidic Foods – If you’re searching for how to help sensitive teeth, one way may be to eat fewer acidic foods. Avoiding foods such as lemon, grapefruit, pickles, kiwi, and tomato sauce may help you avoid tooth discomfort.
3. Grinding Your Teeth – If your teeth hurt from clenching, you may be a tooth grinder. Try not to grind or clench your teeth because it wears down the enamel. If you experience grinding teeth pain or clenching teeth pain, ask your dentist about a mouth guard. This can prevent tooth pain at night.
4. Teeth Whitening – Many of our patients ask us how to help sensitive teeth after whitening or “why do my teeth hurt after whitening strips?”. Tooth whitening strips or toothpaste can make your teeth sensitive. A professional teeth cleaning is your best option.
5. Too Much Mouthwash – There’s nothing wrong with using mouthwash, but too much of it may make your teeth sensitive to hot and cold. Try to use a neutral fluoride rinse instead of a mouthwash that contains alcohol and other chemicals.
6. Gum Disease – If you have one tooth sensitive to cold, you could have receding gums, which is common with age. Your dentist can treat gum disease or gingivitis and may also use a procedure to seal your teeth.
7. Excessive Plaque – If your teeth hurt when eating, you may have too much plaque. An excessive plaque buildup can cause your tooth enamel to wear away and make a tooth very sensitive to cold. Practicing good oral care and visiting your dentist for regular checkups can help.
8. Dental Procedures – It’s not uncommon to experience tooth sensitivity after certain procedures, including root canals, extractions, and crown placements. If tooth sensitivity does not go away after a short time, schedule a follow-up visit.
9. Cracked Teeth – A tooth that is cracked or chipped can cause pain and tooth sensitivity. Visit your dentist for evaluation and treatment.
10. Decay – Decay around the edges of fillings can lead to a sensitive tooth. Visit your dentist because your filling can likely be replaced.

Schedule an Appointment for Sensitive Teeth

Dr. Richter and the team at Twin Aspen Dental Center in Parker, CO are here to assist you with your sensitive teeth. We’re all too familiar with comments and questions like “my tooth is sensitive to cold” or “why are my teeth sensitive to cold?”. We’re here to help make your teeth feel better, so contact us today to schedule an appointment.