Dental sensitivity can be a source of great discomfort and may even pose some danger to your teeth. If you experience this, contact our Glendale family dentist as soon as possible; we will be able to determine the root of the problem and implement a treatment plan.
Generally speaking, there are a few commonly experienced reasons that sensitivity develops:
Dental Infection
When oral bacteria take up residence in a tooth, they start to degrade the natural tooth structure, thus exposing sensitive dental nerves. A cavity, if left untreated, will eat its way all the way through a tooth to the dental core. That is why it’s so important to seek prompt treatment for dental infections.
Enamel Erosion
It is also possible that your dental enamel has started to wear away due to abrasive materials, or tooth-on-tooth contact due to bruxism. Patients who brush their teeth too vigorously, for example, are more prone to developing tooth sensitivity. Enamel erosion may be further exacerbated by a diet heavy in acidic foods and drinks.
Receding Gums
Another way that irritants can get to your sensitive dental nerves is through the tooth root. Normally, your tooth structure and your gum tissue cover these nerves. As gum tissue pulls away from the tooth vulnerable nerves are left exposed.
In many cases, sudden dental sensitivity indicates that there is something amiss with your oral health. That is why our Glendale dentists strongly encourage patients to reach out for support at the first sign of discomfort. As always, please feel free to call our office to learn more!