Have you ever experienced a sharp pain when sipping on coffee or eating a cold food? It so, it’s possible that your teeth are sensitive from layers of protective enamel that have broken down over time. The enamel breaks down due to common reasons, such as brushing your teeth too hard, and eating foods that are acidic. However, teeth sensitivity can be caused by these other reasons that are not so common.
You Have A Cracked Tooth
Teeth sensitivity can actually be a warning sign of a problem that is much larger. You will want to pay close attention to sensitivity to make sure that it is not due to a cracked tooth. While you may experience pain when drinking or eating, you shouldn’t feel
it during your normal day when not actively using your teeth. Chronic pain tells you that the problem is much worse than worn down enamel. Have your teeth looked at by a dentist, because there may be a crack that is causing your discomfort.
Your Old Dental Fillings Need To Be Replaced
A dental filling will not last forever, even though they can last a very long time. If you had cavities filled as a teenager, it’s possible that your fillings are starting to develop a problem just like the teeth did years ago. You can still develop decay around the filing’s edges, which will allow acid to collect around the exposed enamel. This will make your teeth sensitive around the area where the filling is. It’s also possible that the filling material fell out without you knowing it, letting the exposed enamel cause that temperature sensitivity.
Your Alcohol Based Mouthwash Is Causing Harm
While dentists will recommend using mouthwash on top of flossing and brushing, doing it too often can cause problems. Some of the mouthwashes that are available contain alcohol, and when used frequently, will weaken the enamel on your teeth. Consider cutting back on how often you use mouthwash. If you use it after brushing your teeth each time, it may be too much. Try using mouthwash only when you brush your teeth, and do not rinse any longer than the directions tell you to do it for.
If you have any of these problems, tooth sensitivity won’t go away by simple using a new toothpaste or cutting down on your favorite acidic foods. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to see if they can identify the reason behind your sensitive teeth.