Why Are My Teeth Sensitive All Of A Sudden? (10 Common Causes)

Sudden Tooth Pain

The pain we experience in our mouths sometimes leaves some questions. For instance, why are my teeth sensitive all of a sudden? Why do I experience throbbing pain when I eat hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods? What should I do to prevent this from happening again? If you notice sudden tooth pain, consult your dentist to make sure you get the treatment you need. Pain or sensitivity in your mouth can affect a single tooth or multiple teeth. The pain may also appear in the other areas of the mouth, like gums and jaw. This article will explore the possible reasons for sudden tooth pain and when to seek dental care treatment from a professional.

Possible Causes of Sudden Tooth Sensitivity

Experiencing sudden tooth sensitivity may occur for various reasons. In fact, a poor daily care routine can make your teeth weak, making them prone to dental issues that cause pain and sensitivity. That is why oral hygiene is important to keep your mouth, teeth, and gums strong and healthy. In any case, here are the following  possible reasons why your teeth might be giving you pain:

Exposure To Extreme Hot or Cold

Worn tooth enamel or exposed dentin can cause tooth sensitivity. It may appear as a sudden, sharp flash of pain when you consume something with an extremely high or low temperature.

Gum Recession

why are my teeth sensitive all of a sudden

Gum recession happens when the gum tissue starts to wear. This leaves the roots of your teeth exposed, making you more susceptible to periodontal disease and tooth infections. So if you experience sudden tooth sensitivity, you may have receding gums that expose your tooth root.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay, also known as a dental cavity, might be the reason why you are experiencing sudden tooth sensitivity. Decay can stay on the tops or sides of your tooth enamel without noticing it quickly for a while. If left untreated, tooth decay can progress toward an infection that may cause sudden tooth discomfort and pain.

Gum Disease

Gum disease also referred to as periodontal disease, is a common oral health issue among adults ages 30 and above. In fact, some people are not aware that they have gum disease, especially in its early stages. Sensitive teeth and bleeding gums can indicate the presence of gum disease.

Cracked Tooth or Crown

Another possible reason for tooth pain and sensitivity is when you have a cracked tooth or crown. In fact, there are situations when you may have a crack on your tooth that is so slight that it creates pain and discomfort but is almost difficult to see.

Sinus Infection

One manifestation of sinus infections is a pain in your teeth and jaws. Your sinuses can compress the sensitive spots of your teeth when they become inflamed and filled with pressure from the infection.

Teeth Grinding or Jaw Clenching

These unhealthy habits can cause chronic tooth sensitivity since they can wear away the enamel on your teeth. Many people grind or clench their teeth from time to time. However, poor sleep or high-stress circumstances can increase you to grind your teeth or clench your jaw without you realizing it. This leads to tooth pain that appears to be mysterious.

Dental Procedures

New tooth fillings or dental work, including drilling, can briefly make the tooth nerve more sensitive. As a matter of fact, sensitivity from dental filling may last up to two weeks.

Teeth Bleaching Products

Using teeth whitening products such as bleaching gels, whitening strips, or having a professional dental whitening procedure can increase your risk for tooth sensitivity. Dental pain due to teeth bleaching is usually temporary and will often subside when you stop using dental whitening products.

Crowded Teeth and Malocclusion

Crowded teeth, also known as malocclusion, can cause pressure on one another, resulting in pain.  They may likewise cause jaw misalignment when you close your mouth. In any case, both of these conditions can create pressure and pain sensations in one or more areas of the mouth.

When to See a Doctor

If your teeth become sensitive than before, it would be better to schedule an appointment with your dentist. They might be able to suggest a simple dental care treatment, such as specific toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.

Dental cleanings

Your dentist can likewise be able to tell if you require corrective treatment, such as a tooth filling or extraction, to ease your pain. If removing your tooth structure is the ideal method, a dental implant is a safe option to address your missing tooth.

Additionally, some signs and symptoms should never be disregarded. See your dentist as soon as possible, or call another health professional, if you encounter the following:

  • sharp or throbbing, aching pain that does not subside
  • toothache that goes on for over 48 hours
  • migraine or severe headache that radiates to your teeth and mouth
  • fever that appears to go along with your toothache

For other treatment options, click here to learn more. Keep in mind that seeing a dentist is the only way to make this problem disappear entirely. So if you experience sudden pain in your mouth, you should speak with your dentist right away.  A dental examination is vital to rule out some of the more severe conditions.

References:

Periodontal (Gum) Disease.

https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/health-info/gum-disease

Malocclusion and Orthodontics.

https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/tn1000

Sinus Infection (Sinusitis).

https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/sinus-infection.html

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