Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common condition globally. It results in sharp pain or even discomfort when exposed to hot, cold, sweet and acidic foods and drinks. This can drastically reduce the quality of life, so it is essential to determine these common causes of tooth sensitivity.
Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
- Enamel Tear: The enamel is the outer coating of the teeth. It can also erode over time due to vigorous brushing of teeth, consumption of acidic foods and drinks, or teeth grinding. So, when enamel is lost, the dentin underneath, which is more sensitive, becomes exposed.
- Gum Recession: Some people have genes that cause their gums to be thin. Gingivitis can also lead to gum loss in some individuals. You have gum recession if your gums pull away from your teeth and expose the roots.
- Tooth Decay and Damage: When a tooth is chipped or cracked, bacteria can infiltrate the dentin or the tooth’s inner pulp, leading to sensitivity. However, these issues are treatable during routine dental visits.
- Dental Procedures: Teeth whitening, fillings, or crown placement can make teeth more sensitive. This usually lasts up to a few weeks, and people should continue following their dentist’s post-operative instructions.
- Acidic Foods and Beverages: Regular consumption of acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, soft drinks, and wine, could lead to enamel loss, therefore increasing sensitivity. However, drinking water after eating these foods can reduce their impact.
Is it Possible to Treat These Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity?
Yes, it can treated. Here is how:
- Desensitizing Toothpaste: Special toothpaste can interfere with the pain signals from the tooth surface to the nerve.
- Fluoride Treatments: Dentists can prescribe fluoride varnish to treat weak enamel and sensitivity.
- Gum Graft: If gum tissue is lost from the root, your dentist can recommend a gum graft. This will cover the root, protect the tooth, and make it less sensitive to stimuli.
- Lifestyle Changes: Changing certain foods, practicing better dental care routines, and avoiding behaviors like bruxism can help slow the progression of enamel erosion and receding gums.
What are the Best Ways to Relieve Tooth Sensitivity Quickly?
Some of the ways are:
- Desensitising Toothpaste: Consider using toothpaste for sensitive teeth. This can offer immediate relief, while its regular use can lead to long-term immunity.
- Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Use a soft toothbrush and gentle strokes, as brushing too hard may cause tooth and gum abrasions.
- Avoid Triggers: Eliminate the foods and drinks that cause your sensitivity to develop. This may involve hot, cold, sweet, or acidic food or beverages.
- Saltwater Rinse: Salt is good for removing dirt and preventing swelling. If your teeth hurt because they are sensitive, use a mixture of salt water twice daily as a mouth rinse.
- Over-the-counter Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter drugs would offer short-term relief from acute pain.
How to Restore Tooth Enamel: 5 Natural Methods
- Calcium-Rich Foods: To strengthen enamel, consume calcium-rich foods like milk products, spinach, and almonds.
- Phosphorus-Rich Foods: Phosphorus aids in replacing and reinforcing enamel. Meat, eggs, and fish are good source of it.
- Hydration: Drinking a lot of water is essential to avoid dry mouth, which inhibits saliva from flowing and protects the teeth’ enamel.
- Xylitol Products: Xylitol sugar-free chewing gum can even increase saliva secretions and help prevent tooth decay.
- Proper Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly.
Conclusion
Tooth sensitivity can easily be prevented or treated if the vulnerability is not too intense. There are various common causes of tooth sensitivity. Therefore, it is imperative to understand these common causes of tooth sensitivity for the proper treatment. To minimize the pain that heightened sensitivity teeth may cause and avoid further complications, people can incorporate the following preventative measures: Applying desensitizing products and eating a nutritious and healthy diet.
