Tooth sensitivity is an issue that up to 88% of people in the United States deal with on a daily basis. The catalysts for sensitivity are generally extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) very sweet, or very sour foods. Cavities that have progressed to a level where nerves are being exposed can cause sensitivity, as well as gum recession which is a part of periodontal disease. Genetically, you may be predisposed to various oral health weaknesses that make you more likely to have sensitive teeth. However, oral hygiene plays the biggest role in maintaining teeth and gums that allow you the utmost quality of life. Your Moreno Valley dentists from Dental Associates of Moreno Valley will discuss how you can avoid gum recession.

Gum Recession and Tooth Sensitivity

Your gums provide a visual frame around your smile, but they also serve a functional purpose. Your dental pulp houses roots that can become infected and cause sensitivity and pain. Your roots are not designed for consistent exposure to any stimulus. Hot, cold, sweet, and/or sour foods will cause a burst of discomfort when making contact with your sensitive roots. Some people might even describe the feeling as a brief pain sensation. It’s not only food that can create this feeling. Sometimes a big breath of cold air on a fall or winter day can irritate the nerves that are exposed.

Avoiding Gum Recession

Gum recession occurs for a variety of reasons. Some degree of gum recession is a natural part of getting older. However, periodontal disease (gum disease) is going to be the leading cause of receding gums. How do you know if you have gum disease? Some symptoms can include halitosis (chronic bad breath) bleeding gums, puffy gum tissues, or even a toothache like pain in your gingival tissues. However, gum disease can also occur with no obvious symptoms. The best way to ensure that you are keeping gums healthy is to visit your Moreno Valley dentists every six months. Gum disease is the result of plaque and tartar buildup at the gumline. Once plaque hardens into tartar, the only way to have it properly and safely removed is at your six month dental cleanings.

Visit Your Moreno Valley Dentists

Experiencing tooth sensitivity? If you need to determine the cause of your tooth sensitivity, your Moreno Valley dentists can help. At Dental Associates of Moreno Valley, we offer comprehensive dental care and multi-specialty dentistry. Contact our 92533 dental office by calling (951) 697-6800 to schedule an appointment today. We welcome patients from Moreno Valley and all neighboring communities in Southern California.