Do You Have Sensitive Teeth?
Do you have difficulty eating hot and cold foods because it bothers your teeth? If so, you may be suffering from tooth sensitivity. When we experience tooth sensitivity, it is our mouth’s way of alerting us to a problem with our oral health. Do you know what issues with tooth sensitivity may mean for your oral health? Read on to learn more.
What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
If you have difficulty eating hot or cold foods and experience tooth sensitivity, you may have a problem with your oral health. Your teeth are composed of several layers. The outermost layer is made up of tooth enamel, the strongest substance in the body. However, it is not indestructible. Tooth enamel is very easy to damage if you do not make good choices for your oral health, like chewing on non-food items and not cleaning your teeth properly. Tooth sensitivity may be the result of:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease and receding gums
- Cracked or chipped tooth
- Teeth grinding
- Excessive teeth whitening
Cleaning Your Teeth Incorrectly
Brushing your teeth too roughly will damage your tooth enamel over time. You may think you need to brush your teeth vigorously to clean them thoroughly, but that is not the case. In fact, repeated rough brushing can prematurely wear down your tooth enamel. We encourage our patients to brush their teeth gently and recommend only using soft-bristled toothbrushes. If you have any questions about how to brush your teeth correctly, we would be more than happy to help you.
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity and are concerned about your oral health, we encourage you to contact our office located in Houston, TX to schedule an appointment. We can determine if you need dental treatment. We look forward to seeing you soon.