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Why Are My Teeth So Sensitive? 7 Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity You Can Fix

tooth sensitivity

Your Trusted Dental Care in Sun City West and Beyond

If you’re experiencing sharp pain when sipping hot coffee or eating ice cream, you’re not alone. Tooth sensitivity affects millions of Americans, including many residents in Sun City West, AZ, and nearby Peoria, Surprise, and Glendale. The good news? Most sensitivity issues can be addressed with proper care and treatment from a dentist near you

At AZ Implant & Denture Center, led by Dr. Cooper, we understand how frustrating dental sensitivity can be. It can turn simple pleasures—like enjoying a warm, sweet breakfast at Hole ‘n One—into painful experiences. Let’s explore the common causes of tooth sensitivity and discover practical solutions to help you enjoy life pain-free again.

Ready to enjoy your favorite foods and drinks again? Contact AZ Implant & Denture Center at (623) 214-7898. Our Sun City West dental office welcomes patients from Peoria, Surprise, and Glendale. Don’t wait—relief is one call away.

What Is Tooth Sensitivity? Our Sun City West Dentist Explains

woman complains of pain at dentist

Tooth sensitivity occurs when the protective layers of your teeth are compromised. Enamel protects the crown, while cementum covers the root. Beneath these lies dentin, which contains microscopic tubules connected to your tooth’s nerve.

When enamel or cementum wears away, these tubules are exposed. Hot, cold, sweet, or acidic substances can reach the nerve, causing discomfort. Understanding this process helps us identify what’s causing your sensitivity and how to fix it.

7 Common Causes of Sensitive Teeth

Brushing Too Hard

Aggressive brushing can wear away enamel and cause gum recession, exposing sensitive tooth areas.

Solution: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with gentle circular motions. Replace it every three months to keep your smile ready for Sun City West’s vibrant community.

gum recessionGum Recession and Periodontal Disease

Gum disease (or periodontal disease) causes inflammation and recession of gum tissue, exposing sensitive tooth root surfaces not protected by enamel. This can make enjoying a relaxing day at the RH Johnson Recreation Center less comfortable if sensitivity flares up.

Solution: Maintain excellent oral hygiene and schedule regular teeth cleanings with Dr. Cooper. Early treatment prevents progression, so you can stay active and enjoy the foods you love.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Grinding your teeth, often at night, wears down enamel. This can lead to tooth sensitivity.

Solution: A custom night guard protects your teeth while you sleep. Stress reduction techniques can also minimize grinding.

Acidic Foods and Beverages

Acidic items erode tooth enamel and can stain teeth, creating pathways for sensitivity triggers. You don’t have to skip a social evening out, though.

Solution: Rinse with water after consuming acidic drinks. Use a straw for wine at Fry’s Wine Bar in Sun City West to minimize contact with teeth, and wait 30 minutes before brushing to protect enamel. Regular checkups manage stains, keeping your smile bright.

Recent Dental Procedures

Temporary sensitivity after tooth fillings, dental crowns, or professional teeth whitening is normal as teeth adjust.

Solution: Use desensitizing toothpaste and avoid extreme temperatures. Contact Dr. Cooper at (623) 214-7898 if sensitivity persists beyond a few weeks.

athlete with mouth guardDamaged or Cracked Tooth

Cracks or chips expose inner tooth layers, causing sensitivity. Physical activities like playing at the Surprise Community Park Pickleball Courts can risk tooth damage, especially if you have existing restorations.

Solution: Wear a mouth guard during active sports to protect teeth and dental work. Visit AZ Implant & Denture Center promptly for evaluation. Treatments like bonding or crowns restore your teeth, so you can enjoy community activities pain-free.

Tooth Decay

Cavities create holes in enamel, letting irritants reach sensitive areas. Early decay might cause mild sensitivity.

Solution: Regular dental checkups with Dr. Cooper catch decay early, ensuring you can savor local meals without discomfort.

Don’t let tooth sensitivity control your life. Call AZ Implant & Denture Center at (623) 214-7898 to schedule your consultation today. Dr. Cooper and our team in Sun City West serve patients throughout Peoria, Surprise, and Glendale with compassionate care.

Our Advanced Treatment Options

dental bonding material being shapedAt AZ Implant & Denture Center, we offer tailored sensitivity solutions:

  • Professional-strength fluoride treatments during teeth cleanings to strengthen enamel
  • Dental bonding to cover exposed root surfaces
  • Advanced dental restoration options for damaged teeth, like veneers or dental implants, for teeth that cannot be saved

Dr. Cooper designs each treatment plan to fit your needs, ensuring the most effective, least invasive solution.

Prevent Future Tooth Sensitivity With a Dentist Near Peoria!

Living with sensitive teeth impacts your quality of life. From avoiding spicy dishes to wincing during active outings, sensitivity creates challenges. But you don’t have to accept discomfort as normal.

Prevention is key to enjoying Sun City West’s vibrant surrounding communities:

  • Brush gently twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
  • Floss daily to prevent gum disease
  • Use a straw for acidic drinks
  • Wear a mouth guard for active sports
  • Schedule regular checkups with Dr. Cooper

AZ Implant & Denture Center combines advanced technology with personalized care. Dr. Cooper has helped countless patients overcome sensitivity and regain confidence in their smiles. Our approach addresses symptoms and prevents future issues.

Call Dr. Cooper at (623) 214-7898 today. Our friendly Sun City West dental team is ready to serve you and your neighbors from Peoria, Surprise, and Glendale. Your journey to a sensitivity-free smile starts with one call. We look forward to serving you at AZ Implant & Denture Center.

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(623) 214-7898
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