We get it — sometimes the food’s too tempting to wait for it to cool down, and you burn your tongue. But wait, why are your teeth hurting when exposed to heat? If this is true, chances are that your teeth are sensitive to heat. When enamel wears away over time, it exposes the inner layer called dentin, which is not as strong and might cause pain when it comes in contact with potential triggers. Carry on reading this blog to learn more.
Why Are My Teeth Sensitive To Heat?
If you jolt back in pain when your teeth are exposed to something hot, you may have teeth sensitivity. While it is fairly common, teeth sensitivity could be an indication of an underlying issue. In simple terms, when the outer protective layer called dental enamel wears away, teeth become vulnerable to pain and discomfort. Thus, once you have something cold or hot, the dental nerves might be stimulated, leading to sensitivity.
Some reasons why teeth sensitivity to heat or cold occurs include:
- Cavities: You may have advanced tooth decay, which forms a hole, causing pain when you have something sugary, cold, or hot.
- Injury: Damage to the tooth, like a bruise or a crack, may trigger pain when heat and coolness hit the affected area.
- Teeth Grinding: Bruxism or grinding your teeth can apply pressure, which results in increased teeth sensitivity to heat, cold, acids, and more.
- Gum Disease: Infection in gums could be a potential reason why your teeth are sensitive to heat. You will need gum disease treatment right away.
- Receding Gums: Many factors can result in gums pulling back, which is also a cause of teeth sensitivity to heat, cold, etc.
- Harsh Dental Products: If you use dental products such as toothpaste and alcohol-based mouthwash containing abrasive chemicals, your teeth will likely have increased sensitivity.
- Diet: What you eat also affects your teeth, and acidic foods are a primary reason behind enamel erosion. Therefore, eating acidic or sugary food might be why your teeth are sensitive to heat.
- Smoking: Smoking and tobacco use are extremely harmful to your teeth, so much so that they can lead to oral cancer. Teeth sensitivity is one of the side effects of such tobacco consumption and smoking.
- Poor Oral Care: Your oral hygiene holds power for strong or weak teeth, so maintaining a proper dental care routine can significantly improve the condition of your teeth. However, if you do not care for your teeth the right way, it can lead to issues such as teeth sensitivity.
- Infection: Your teeth may start hurting constantly as a result of an infection. Therefore, you can experience teeth sensitivity as a result of dental infection. Make sure to visit an emergency dentist in case you suspect an infection.
Takeaway
Your teeth might be sensitive to heat due to a number of reasons, including tooth decay, gum disease, diet, smoking, receding gums, and more. You can contact a dental specialist to get rid of sensitivity and strengthen your teeth for a healthy smile. At Smile 4 Ever Dentistry, we care about your overall dental health. Dial (281) 213-5668 to talk to us today. You can also drop by our dental clinic at 14715 TC Jester Blvd, Houston, Texas 77068.