If you notice that it’s painful to drink beverages or eat foods that are extremely cold or hot, or if flossing or brushing your teeth is uncomfortable, you’re likely suffering from tooth sensitivity. Toothache treatment in Granada Hills is easier than ever thanks to the friendly and professional staff at Kimia Family Dentistry. When you’re looking for the best dentist Granada Hills has to offer, Dr. Kimia and his staff will provide you with both pain management and cosmetic improvement that will keep you looking and feeling your best.

Here are 10 of the reasons why your teeth may be especially sensitive.

1. Brushing Too Forcefully
If you brush with too much force, the layers of your teeth can become worn down, which makes your teeth more sensitive.

2. Eating Acidic Foods
Eating foods like citrus and tomatoes that are high in acid can break down enamel and expose the path to the nerves of your teeth, making the nerves of your teeth more susceptible to sensitivity.

3. Grinding Your Teeth
Grinding your teeth makes your enamel weaker and makes your teeth more sensitive. The dentist can create a customized mouth guard for you to keep you from grinding your teeth and protect your smile.

4. Using Whitening Toothpaste
Toothpastes with whitening agents can make the teeth more sensitive by stripping the enamel and causing the nerves to be more exposed.

5. Using Too Much Mouthwash
If you use mouthwash several times a day to freshen your breath, this could be making your teeth more sensitive, particularly if the mouthwash comes in contact with your dentin. Try brushing or flossing more to make sure your breath is fresh and your teeth and gums are healthy, and opt for an alcohol-free mouthwash.

6. Gum Disease
Receding gums are often a part of aging if you haven’t had regular dental care, which makes the teeth especially sensitive. It’s important to have gum disease treated as soon as possible and to ask your dentist about possibly sealing your teeth to prevent the disease from spreading.

7. Excess Plaque
Your teeth can be sensitive if they have too much plaque on them. Brushing and flossing regularly can help with this. It’s recommended that you visit a dentist every six months for a deep cleaning as well.

8. Dental Procedures
If you’ve had dental work like a crown replacement, root canal or extraction, your teeth will likely be more sensitive since your nerves have recently been exposed. If the sensitivity doesn’t subside after a few days, visit your dentist to make sure it’s not infected.

9. Chipped or Cracked Teeth
Teeth that are cracked or chipped are sensitive to air and the temperature of food. Be sure to visit the dentist as soon as possible to have the tooth repaired or removed.

10. Filling Decay
If your fillings are weakening or have leaks, bacteria can set in, which causes acid to build up and enamel to break down. Have your dentist evaluate the condition of your filling to see if it should be replaced.