Why teeth get sensitive

When that happens, heat, cold, acidity, and so on can penetrate into the cells and nerves of the tooth, thereby provoking sensitivity. A number of factors can contribute to enamel loss, while others may account for additional causes of tooth sensitivity. These include the following:. Brushing too hard can also provoke gum recession, which exposes the root of the tooth and may provoke sensitivity. Just as acidic foods can wear down tooth enamel, so too can acidic mouthwashes.

Long-term use of an acidic mouthwash such as those containing alcohol or other harsh chemicals can worsen existing sensitivity.

Grinding or clenching your teeth on a regular basis whether at night or during the day can gradually wear down tooth enamel, leaving the dentin less protected.

Tooth-whitening products are common culprits of tooth sensitivity. These symptoms may include:. In fact, about 40 million adults in the United States experience some type of tooth sensitivity. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums caused by a bacterial infection. If left untreated, it can become a more serious infection known as….

Tooth enamel erosion isn't reversible, but here are some tips for how to prevent it and stop it from getting worse. Learn the 7 most common causes of tooth pain when you wake up and how you can treat them with either home remedies or medical treatment, if necessary…. Learn 9 possible causes of pain in your cheekbones and teeth as well as home remedies and medical treatments that can help relieve your symptoms.

Here are strategies you can use to help manage it. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Symptoms of sensitive teeth. What causes sensitive teeth?

How are sensitive teeth diagnosed? How is tooth sensitivity treated? Read this next. Gum Disease Gingivitis and Periodontitis. Itchy Gums. Medically reviewed by Judith Marcin, M. Does a Gum Grafting Procedure Hurt?

How to Relieve Pain. A salt water rinse is easily made by mixing two teaspoons of salt with a cup of warm water. This rinse should be used in the morning and at night until sensitivity improves. If you have sensitive teeth from a possible bacteria overgrowth, coconut oil can help. This remedy has been used for many years as an oral health aid. Coconut oil hinders bacterial growth in the mouth, breaks down plaque on teeth, and removes germs and toxins from the gum surface.

This promotes healthier gums and teeth, which in turn reduces tooth sensitivity. It can also whiten and brighten your teeth over time. All that is required is a tablespoon of melted coconut oil.

This is swished around inside the mouth for 20 seconds and spit out. There are a number of varnishes and other coatings that can be applied by a dentist to relieve sensitive teeth. A flouride varnish can be helpful in reducing tooth sensitivity.

Application of flouride fills tiny holes in tooth enamel that can expose the teeth to temperature change and other irritants. There are other bonding agents and plastic sealant coatings that can be applied to strengthen enamel and dentin. Dentin is the bony tissue beneath the enamel. Ask your dentist about coating options for reducing sensitivity in teeth. Cloves and clove oil are anti-inflammatory, germicidal, and analgesic.

This means they can reduce inflammation, bacteria overgrowth, and pain. When used as an extract that is swished in the mouth, clove can have a numbing effect that relieves tooth sensitivity.