Tooth sensitive to touch, what to do? What causes a tooth that is sensitive to touch? How to treat it? And how to prevent tooth sensitivity?
I. What Is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is also called tooth hypersensitivity. It is a pain that you feel in one or more teeth following a stimulus such as a temperature or sweetness.
When you have sensitive teeth, it hurts when you eat something cold, like ice cream, or something hot.
You feel a kind of stinging sensation the moment your teeth come into contact with the stimulus. It is the dentin, the outer layer of the tooth, that is affected.
This is called tooth pain without cavities because the cause of tooth sensitivity is not necessarily related to a cavity.
You may develop tooth sensitivity because of periodontal disease, which has caused gum recession. The exposed teeth can become hypersensitive.
II. Causes of Sensitive Teeth
You may have one or more teeth that are sensitive to touch. If a tooth hurts when you touch it, you may have an infection in the root of the tooth.
Dental hypersensitivity has many causes.
It is important to understand that the dentin is protected by the enamel and the gum, to fight against external threats. Tooth sensitivity can develop when the enamel is lost.
Enamel loss can occur if you often eat foods that are too acidic or too sweet.
Another thing that can cause tooth hypersensitivity over time is brushing your teeth.
If you use a toothbrush that is too hard, for example, you can hit your gums and make your teeth sensitive.
Tooth decay is also one of the causes of tooth sensitivity, especially in the cold. Tooth grinding at night or tooth loosening can cause tooth sensitivity.
III. How to Treat a Tooth that Is Sensitive to Touch?
If you notice that your teeth are sensitive to touch, the first solution is to use a toothpaste adapted to sensitive teeth.
There are many on the market, and after a few weeks of use, you will feel the difference.
Then, make an appointment with your doctor. The treatment of dental hypersensitivity is determined by the origin of the problem.
If the cause of your sensitivity is due to gum recession, then your dentist can perform a gum tissue graft.
It is also possible to cover the sensitive tooth with a crown, an inlay, or a bridge if the sensitivity is caused by tooth loosening.
Your dentist may also decide to apply a fluoride solution to your teeth or cover them with a composite resin.
You can also apply clove oil to your sensitive tooth. It is a powerful dental pain reliever.
In addition, clove is also a very effective grandmother’s remedy for the sensitive tooth to touch.
IV. How to Prevent Tooth Sensitivity?
There are some habits you can do to avoid having tooth sensitivity problems.
For example, take care of your teeth. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft toothbrush.
Be meticulous, but gentle, in brushing all over your teeth. Don’t forget to floss or floss to remove any residue between your teeth.
Although it is recommended that you brush your teeth after every meal, always wait at least 30 minutes after your meals before brushing.
When you’ve just eaten, your tooth enamel is softer. Brushing immediately afterward makes it sensitive.
As much as possible, also avoid foods that are too sweet or too acidic. Limit your intake of sweets and sodas.
V. Other Questions About Teeth Sensitive to Touch
1. Sensitive Tooth After Root Canal, Why?
It is common to have sensitive teeth shortly after a root canal. A root canal is an irreversible operation to remove the pulp from a tooth that is too infected to be saved.
Because it is a fairly extensive dental procedure, you may experience pain for days or even weeks afterward.
If the pain is uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to take Ibuprofen. However, don’t turn to antibiotics. If in doubt, ask your dentist or pharmacist for advice.
The pain associated with a devitalized tooth usually does not last long. Afterward, the tooth becomes insensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
There is also a risk that a devitalized tooth may be infected by bacteria, especially if the large fillings are no longer watertight. They then let bacteria through.
2. Why Is a Dental Crown Sensitive to Touch?
There are several reasons why you may have a tooth crown that is sensitive to touch.
If your dentist did not treat the root canal before placing the crown, the crown can be painful when it touches the diseased nerve.
If the pain is in the gum area, then perhaps the crown is affected by decay or is eroded.
The pain at the dental crown can also be without risk, only related to the adaptation time of your gum. In this case, the pain will last just a few days before disappearing.
3. Tooth Hurts When You Press on It?
Generally, if it hurts when you press on one of your teeth, it means that the nerve underneath is infected.
This can be the consequence of tooth decay that has spread to the pulp. A root canal may be necessary, but only your dentist can decide.
4. Why Is a Tooth Sensitive to Touch After Scaling?
Teeth that have just been scaled can be painful to the touch. Although scaling is not usually painful, it can be for some.
If you have sensitive gums and teeth, scaling can leave your teeth sore.
This happens because subgingival plaque must be removed. But the tooth pain from scaling is only temporary.
Brush your teeth gently with a soft toothbrush, and if necessary use a clove mouthwash. This will ease your pain.
5. How Do You Know if the Nerve of a Tooth Is Affected?
Several signs can let you know that the nerve of a tooth is damaged.
First, you will feel constant pain, which is accentuated during chewing.
The tooth will begin to discolor, and above all, it will be more fragile; a sign that it is no longer as vascular and more prone to infection.
Useful Links:
Non-surgical management of tooth hypersensitivity
Clinical study to monitor dentinal hypersensitivity with episodic use of a desensitizing dentifrice