Tooth sensitivity is a very common problem. It is described as sharp, shooting pain in the teeth, usually experienced during consumption of cold food and beverages. Sensitive Teeth occurs when the middle layer of teeth, dentin gets exposed because of wear, tear, and erosion. The dentin carries the nerve endings and is protected by the enamel, a strong calcified layer.
Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
People develop sensitivity because of thinning or wearing of enamel. The csuses may include:
Vigorous brushing of teeth
Consumption of foods which create acid in the mouth
Grinding teeth at night (bruxism)
An injury which may have caused chipping or cracking of teeth
Foods That Increase Tooth Sensitivity
They are foods that have been found to cause tooth sensitivity. In this section, we will discuss the different types of foods and their effect on teeth.
Cold drinks:
Carbonated beverages such as sodas and colas are loaded with sugar and acids such as citric and phosphoric acids, which gradually wear away the enamel of teeth. Excessive consumption of cold drinks has the risk of increasing sensitivity and cavities.
Acidic foods:
Regular consumption of highly acidic foods, such as citrus fruits, pickles, tomatoes and tea, may cause enamel erosion, resulting in tooth sensitivity.
Sticky candies:
The mouth is a home to millions of bacteria. Candies and toffees such as lollipops, refined sugar candies, and caramel chocolates stick to the surface of the teeth. The bacteria present in the mouth utilize this sugar to form acids, that destroy the enamel and result to cavities.
Alcoholic and sugary beverages:
Alcohol and sugary beverages eat away the enamel on the back of the tooth. The regular consumption of sweetened soft drinks may also contribute to cavities.
How to Deal with Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is a serious problem that needs immediate and urgent attention. The symptoms of tooth sensitivity are the burning pain that comes with oral malfunction. , gum pain and swelling, and even temporary loss of vision. The causes of tooth sensitivity are numerous: leaky gums, bacteria in the mouth, overuse of dental procedures.
The treatment and prevention of tooth sensitivity is simple.
- First, brush your teeth and floss consistently with your own saliva.
- Avoid special mouthwashes that contain fluoride.
- If you find yourself unable to brush or floss twice a day, use an electric toothbrush or oral rinses that contain alcohol to help loosen plaque and bacteria trapped in the mouth.
Treatment options for tooth sensitivity include:
- Cellex, a mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine.
- Oral sprays containing chlorhexidine.
- Bunsen Honey, an easy-to-use, natural remedy for tooth sensitivity.
How is the consumption of carbonated or acidic drinks related to tooth sensitivity?
The consumption of carbonated or acidic drinks may cause tooth sensitivity due to irritation from the acidic drink. It has been shown that people who drink carbonated or acidic drinks, such as soft drinks, soda and diet soda are more sensitive to tooth sensitivity.
More research needs to be done in order to have a better understanding of this association. However, the fact that some studies have looked at the link between carbonated drinks and gum disease is encouraging. There is still more research needed in order to understand the link between acidic drinks and tooth sensitivity.
Treating tooth sensitivity can be challenging but it doesn’t have to be stressful. If you or your child experience tooth sensitivity, talk with your dentist about the best options for treating it.
