Not really. There just might be something going on with your teeth. Many people are fazed with the sensation they get when they take drinks and foods that are either hot or cold, like a bite of ice-cream or a sip of hot tea. Some even have this sensation when cold air gets into their mouth. People describe the sensation in different ways;
– a shocking feeling
– some form of discomfort
– a short sharp pain
All of these in response to cold air, hot or cold drinks and foods, and other such stimuli. This is called tooth sensitivity (dentinal hypersensitivity) as it is more popularly known.
Tooth sensitivity occurs as a result of exposure of the inner layer of the tooth (dentin) which is the layer beneath the outermost layer of the tooth (enamel) that houses the “life of the tooth” (pulp). This exposure may occur due to a number of processes that wear off or expose the outer layer of the tooth. Such processes include;
- Teeth grinding (Bruxism)
Some people grind their teeth without knowing especially at night while sleeping or in stressful situations and for many it has become a habit.
- Improper brushing techniques
It is a wrong belief that the harder your toothbrush is and the harder you brush your teeth, the cleaner it becomes. Use of hard brush and improper brushing techniques can cause the gum to wear down (recede) hence exposing the neck of the tooth.
- Crushing of bones
A number of people enjoy crushing bones and will not drop a piece of chicken bone until it’s near invisible. This causes the outer layer of the teeth to wear off over time and may lead to exposure of the inner layer (dentin) which then causes sensitivity.
- Regular consumption of acidic foods or beverages
Acidic items like lemon can gradually erode the outer layer of the tooth (enamel) and expose the inner layer, resulting in sensitivity.
If you experience tooth sensitivity, be sure to visit a dentist so you can be properly checked out and managed. There might even be a hole (cavity/decay) in your tooth! Tooth sensitivity can be treated based on the cause, extent or severity by using toothpastes that are specific for sensitive teeth, mouth guards, tooth fillings etc.