Why Do Teeth Become Sensitive?

Teeth can become sensitive for a variety of reasons, but in most cases, sensitivity is due to enamel erosion. Enamel makes up the outer layer of your teeth, and is made of densely packed mineralized crystals, which insulate the inner layers of your teeth. The dentin is the next layer of your teeth and contains tiny fluid-filled tubules. The fluid in these tubules moves in response to exposure to hot or cold temperatures and transmits sensation to the nerve of the tooth.

Over time, the enamel layer can become thinner due to aggressive dental hygiene habits, acid erosion, and other factors. This exposes more of the dentin to triggers that can cause hypersensitivity in the tooth’s nerve and lead to pain. You may also have pain when you eat something sweet or sour.

In most cases, sensitivity is not necessarily a sign of more serious problems, but can affect your quality of life. We may recommend fluoride treatments to help harden and remineralize your dental enamel, along with a desensitizing toothpaste that can block painful sensations. If gum recession is responsible for your sensitivity, we may also recommend bonding or other treatments to protect the exposed roots of your teeth. Call us today to learn more or to schedule your appointment with our expert in treatment of sensitive teeth in Los Angeles.