Tooth sensitivity is an oral condition that causes a sudden, sharp pain when you eat hot, cold or sweet and sour foods. This oral condition occurs when your tooth enamel gets damaged and the nerves inside your teeth get exposed. It’s also one of the first signs of a major oral problem, so it’s essential to get it treated as soon as possible.There are many reasons why this condition develops. Below we take a closer look at the biggest causes of sensitive teeth as well as the treatment options available.
Aggressive brushing
Did you know that you can damage your tooth enamel by brushing too hard? Brushing your teeth aggressively can cause the enamel to wear away and expose the dentin. When this happens, you will begin experiencing tooth sensitivity.
Teeth grinding
Teeth grinding or bruxism is a condition that many people experience without knowing. This is because it usually happens at night when people are asleep. Without treatment, bruxism can put immense pressure on your enamel and cause cracks or fractures which can later on cause sensitivity.
Tooth decay
Tooth sensitivity can also be caused by tooth decay and cavities. By failing to properly clean your mouth, oral bacteria can overgrow and produce acids that damages the enamel. Eating sugary foods can also create an extremely acidic environment in your mouth and cause your enamel to slowly wear away and expose the nerves inside the tooth.
Gum disease
Your gums firmly support your tooth roots and prevent them from being exposed. When they develop and infection, your tooth can get affected too and develop mild sensitivity. Gum recession can also cause the gums to begin pulling back from the tooth and this can expose the roots and cause severe sensitivity.
Trauma to the teeth
Receiving heavy blows to the mouth can cause fractures in your teeth and lead to sensitivity. If left untreated, the fractures can introduce bacteria to the inside of the tooth and cause painful infections. Dental restorations such as fillings can also cause pain when they become old and start breaking apart inside the tooth.
GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) is a condition that causes stomach acid to come up the esophagus. This acid reflux can sometimes reach your mouth and wear down your enamel over time. Other conditions that cause frequent vomiting such as bulimia can also wear down your enamel and cause sensitivity.
How to reduce sensitivity
#1 - Use a soft toothbrushProtect your smile by using a soft toothbrush. Remember to also replace your toothbrush every three to four months or when the bristles start to become frayed. This is because a toothbrush with frayed bristles won’t be really effective in removing plaque and it may also puncture your gums and cause infections.Also, avoid using alcohol-based mouthwash as it can damage your enamel. Instead, buy alcohol-free mouthwash and make sure it focuses on strengthening the enamel.#2 - Switch to desensitizing toothpastesYou can manage tooth sensitivity by using desensitizing toothpaste. These types of toothpaste contain calcium phosphate which help to strengthen your enamel and prevent sensitivity from occurring. Desensitizing toothpaste also has potassium nitrate which blocks the nerves and prevent you from feeling severe pain. #3 - Eat healthy foodsYour teeth and gums require nutrients to stay strong and healthy, so eat healthy foods and ensure you get enough calcium, Vitamin C, Phosphorous and Vitamin D. These vitamins and minerals will help strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent gum disease. If your pearly whites are sensitive, also avoid eating extremely hot or cold foods. Eat warm foods, so your nerves don’t flare up and cause pain. Also put spicy foods and acidic beverages on the side, and try eating less spicy foods and acidic drinks.#4 -Wear a mouthguardIf your sensitivity is being caused by bruxism, your dentist can make a custom nightguard for you or prescribe a trusted one that will help you better manage the condition. On the other hand, if you’re an athlete and you play contact sports, always ensure you wear a mouthguard before heading for the pitch.#4 - Get your loose dental restorations repairedTooth sensitivity after a dental restoration procedure is quite common. Your tooth and gums may need a few weeks to get used to the new fillings or implants. However, if pain still persists, visit your dentist to see if additional treatment is required.If you suspect that your fillings are wearing down, you can also schedule an appointment with your dentist and see which treatment options can reduce the discomfort. #5 - Get a fluoride treatment Fluoride treatment can also reduce tooth sensitivity and it’s a really simple treatment. Here, you’ll visit your dentist and they will apply fluoride on your teeth to help strengthen your enamel and reduce sensitivity. Kindly note that the number of fluoride treatments you’ll need will depend on the state of your oral health. Final thoughtsYou don’t have to endure the pain of having sensitive teeth. There are many treatments available that can reduce the symptoms and possibly treat the condition. Consult your dentist and use the tips we’ve discussed in this article to relieve the symptoms.Sources:https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/what-causes-tooth-sensitivity/https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/five-tips-to-reducing-tooth-sensitivity/https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/which-toothpastes-are-best-for-tooth-sensitivity/
