If you feel pain in your gums or a sudden toothache, know you are not alone. As a trusted Vero Beach dentist, Dr. Raymond Della Porta and Dr. Scott Elliott of Raymond A. Della Porta, II DMD, located in Vero Beach, FL, have extensive knowledge in treating tooth sensitivity and can help you today.

Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?

There are many possible reasons why your teeth and gums are giving you pain. One of them may be that you have developed tooth sensitivity which is very treatable. Let's look at some other possible reasons for your tooth sensitivity.

Increased Exposure to Heat or Cold

When your teeth become worn, the enamel and nerves in your teeth may become more sensitive to the elements. So, when you drink something very cold or hot, you may feel a sudden sharp pain.

Receding Gums

Gums surround the roots of your teeth and help protect their nerve endings. With aging, the gum tissue can start to wear, leading to gum recession. Without your gums there to protect them, the roots of your teeth become exposed, and you are more vulnerable to gum disease and infection. If you noticed a sudden tooth sensitivity, gum recession might be the reason.

Enamel Destruction

Your daily activities can cause wear and tear on the enamel of your teeth when you eat a highly acidic diet, brush your teeth too hard, or many other factors. The enamel is not replaced once it is gone, so you may start to experience pain as you bite into certain foods.

Cavity and Tooth Decay

Tooth decay and cavities mean the same and might be the reason why you are experiencing teeth sensitivity. Bacteria has started to break down your teeth' enamel, leading to cavities. Once your teeth start to decay, you are at a higher risk of developing an infection, and that can cause discomfort.

Gum Disease and Infection

Many people suffer from gum disease, also known as gingivitis. It may go undetected at first, but with time you can start to experience pain and sensitivity.

Cracked Tooth

If your tooth or crown is cracked, you will probably experience some discomfort. Sometimes, the damage isn't noticeable at first but is still very painful.

Sinus Infection

Believe it or not, a symptom of a sinus infection may be tooth and jaw pain. This is because your sinuses are inflamed and filled with pressure from the disease that can then compress the nerve endings of your teeth, causing discomfort.

Other Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Your local Vero Beach Dentist, Dr. Della Porta or Dr. Elliott, of Vero Beach, FL, can identify other possible causes that may include:

• Grinding your teeth
• Clenching you jaw
• Teeth bleaching products
• Dental procedures

If your teeth are suddenly sensitive or painful, you will want to have them checked out by your dentist. Call Dr. Della Porta or Dr. Elliott, at Raymond A. Della Porta, II, DMD, for an appointment with a Vero Beach Dentist you can trust located in Vero Beach, FL. You can call (772) 567-1025.