Categories: General Dentist

Can Sensitive Teeth Be Caused by an Underlying Issue?

Struggling with sensitive teeth? A lot of people experience sensitivity, as it is very common. Thankfully, there are ways to remedy and treat it, so long as the cause is identified first. While some of the obvious causes are related to dental health, there are a few other underlying issues that can lead to sensitive teeth. These underlying issues can affect the teeth as a result of the link between oral and overall health. Keep reading to find out more!

Underlying issues that cause sensitivity

Outlined below are a few underlying issues that cause teeth sensitivity. This information comes from the link between oral health and overall health.

Diet

Diet plays a big role in one's overall health, which is a no-brainer. However, what might be surprising is the role that diet plays in oral health. Foods that are extremely hard, tough, or highly acidic are likely to cause sensitive teeth

A way to combat this is to avoid eating certain foods; however, that may be difficult, as acid is present in everything. Alternatively, drinking water immediately after each meal can help flush the acids and reduce how much is left on the teeth. If possible, dentists recommend brushing immediately after each meal as this eliminates any chance that acid can attack the enamel, thus preventing sensitivity from occurring long-term. 

Digestive issues

Aside from one's diet, any digestive issues can also cause sensitive teeth. For example, individuals that experience acid reflux will almost always suffer from sensitivity. Similarly, vomiting, such as with eating disorders will cause sensitivity in the teeth. The acid that is present attacks the teeth, leading to decay, which then results in sensitivity. Digestive issues may require the help of a complete health dentist who focuses on both oral and overall health. 

Stress

Stress is common among everyone, regardless of age. A common symptom of stress is bruxism, also known as teeth grinding and clenching. Bruxism typically occurs at night, which is what makes it difficult to detect. Oftentimes, it is detected as a result of the sensitive teeth.

The act of grinding and clenching leads to wear and tear on the enamel, which then results in weakness of the enamel. Weakened enamel leads to sensitivity. Over time, the sensitivity can become chronic. 

The weather

Surprisingly, the weather can cause sensitive teeth. Sudden changes from hot to cold can cause sensitivity. Additionally, cold weather, in general, can also cause sensitive teeth. People that spend a lot of time outside, in the cold are likely to experience sensitivity. Typically, eating and drinking hot or cold items will cause flare-ups, but when cold wind hits the mouth, the sensitivity may be even more heightened, 

Find out more

Sensitive teeth can be a result of any number of things. With the help of a complete health dentist, the cause can be identified. From there, an appropriate treatment plan can be made. To learn more about sensitive teeth or underlying issues behind it, reach out today! 

Request an appointment here: https://metrosmiles.com or call Metro Smiles Dental at (718) 841-9591 for an appointment in our Forest Hills office. 

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Sensitive Teeth in Forest Hills, NY.

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