Do hot or cold drinks, or sweet and sour foods, make you wince? Tooth sensitivity is very common (tens of millions of Americans deal with it), and a little sensitivity during orthodontic treatment is normal too. Understanding why it happens is the first step to relief.
Sensitivity usually starts when the hard enamel on the outside of a tooth wears away and exposes the softer dentin underneath. Dentin is full of tiny tubes that lead to the nerve, so when it is exposed, temperature changes and certain foods can trigger that familiar twinge.
Sensitivity During Orthodontic Treatment
If you wear braces, some tenderness comes from the gentle pressure moving your teeth. This kind of discomfort varies from person to person, is not permanent, and typically fades within a few days of an adjustment. We are always glad to share tips to keep you comfortable during treatment.
Common Causes of Sensitive Teeth
If you are not in treatment, sensitivity often traces back to one of these:
- Over-brushing. Brushing hard with stiff bristles can wear away your gum line over time, exposing sensitive root surfaces. Use a soft brush and a gentle up-and-down motion instead of scrubbing side to side. Gums also recede naturally with age.
- Acidic foods and drinks. Soda, fruit drinks, wine, coffee, and sour citrus or candy can erode enamel. Rinse with water after having them to dilute the acid.
- Abrasive toothpaste or over-brushing. Harsh toothpaste, or brushing more than about three times a day, can wear down enamel. After acidic foods, wait about an hour before brushing, since acid temporarily softens enamel.
- Teeth whitening. The peroxide in many whitening products can irritate the tooth nerve and cause temporary cold sensitivity that improves over time.
- Grinding. Clenching or grinding wears down enamel. A nightguard can protect your teeth if you grind in your sleep.
How to Find Relief
Whatever the cause, a consistent, gentle oral-care routine is your best defense. Over-the-counter toothpastes made for sensitive teeth (like Sensodyne) can help many people. If those do not bring relief, a dental professional can offer more targeted treatments, such as sealing the tooth with a bonding agent or, for receding gums, a gum graft.
If you notice strong or lasting sensitivity during your orthodontic care, talk with us. Dr. Iezman can suggest solutions to keep you comfortable no matter the cause.
We’re Here to Help
Call Berkeley Family Orthodontics at (510) 849-3613 or request an appointment online. Our office is at 2999 Regent Street, Suite 408, in Berkeley’s Elmwood neighborhood. For daily care during treatment, see our braces care guide.