Have you ever sipped a cold drink or brushed your teeth and suddenly felt a sharp, uncomfortable sensation? Or maybe your teeth feel a little loose, and you’re wondering why.
Our team at K Street Dental & Orthodontic Group in Washington, DC, understands how unsettling tooth sensitivity and instability can be. But knowing the causes can help you take the right steps to protect your oral health. We’re here to provide some answers.
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the protective layer of your teeth (enamel) wears down or when your gums recede, exposing the underlying dentin. This can make your teeth more reactive to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.
Common reasons why you might experience sensitivity include:
Acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, soda, and wine, can wear down enamel over time. If you brush too hard or use a toothbrush with stiff bristles, you may experience enamel loss, making your teeth more sensitive.
Untreated cavities create small holes in your teeth, exposing the dentin and nerves inside. This exposure makes your teeth more sensitive to temperature changes and sweet foods. We can treat a cavity with a filling to protect your tooth.
Gum recession, often the result of gum disease or aggressive brushing, exposes the roots of your teeth. These areas don’t have the same enamel protection as the crowns of your teeth, making them more sensitive.
Teeth grinding or clenching can wear down your enamel and lead to increased sensitivity. Many people grind their teeth unknowingly, especially while sleeping.
If you’ve recently had a filling, crown, whitening treatment, or other dental work, your teeth may have temporary sensitivity, which usually subsides within a few days or weeks.
Potential reasons behind the sensation of unstable or loose teeth include:
Advanced gum disease can cause your gums to pull away from your teeth, weakening the supporting bone and making your teeth feel loose. We provide treatment that can help prevent tooth loss.
Constant grinding puts pressure on your teeth and can loosen them over time. This can also lead to jaw pain and headaches.
A blow to the mouth from sports or an accident can loosen your teeth or damage the supporting structures. Even biting down on something hard can cause minor instability.
In some cases, underlying health conditions like osteoporosis can weaken your jawbone, leading to loose teeth.
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity or instability, take the following steps:
One of the most important steps is to make an appointment with our team if your symptoms persist or worsen, especially if you suspect gum disease or have an injury. Our goal is to help you prevent bigger problems down the road.
Call our friendly office staff today to book an appointment at our Washington, DC, office.
