Do you feel a sharp pain or discomfort when you eat or drink something hot, cold, sweet or sour? Do you wince when you brush or floss your teeth? If so, you may have sensitive teeth.
Tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem that affects millions of people. It can interfere with your daily activities and make you avoid certain foods and drinks. But you don’t have to suffer in silence. There are ways to manage tooth sensitivity and pain and improve your oral health.
What causes tooth sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the protective layer of your teeth, called enamel, wears away or gets damaged. This exposes the inner layer of your teeth, called dentin, which contains tiny nerve endings. When these nerve endings come in contact with hot, cold, sweet or sour stimuli, they send signals of pain to your brain.
Some of the factors that can cause tooth sensitivity are:
• Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush, which can erode the enamel and cause gum recession.
• Eating or drinking acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, vinegar, soda and wine, which can dissolve the enamel and expose the dentin.
• Grinding or clenching your teeth, which can crack or chip the enamel and create tiny openings for stimuli to reach the nerve endings.
• Having cavities, cracked or broken teeth, worn fillings or crowns, or gum disease, which can damage the enamel and expose the dentin or the tooth root.
• Using teeth whitening products or mouthwashes that contain harsh chemicals or acids, which can irritate the nerve endings in the dentin.
• Having dental procedures such as fillings, crowns, root canals or teeth cleaning, which can temporarily make your teeth more sensitive.
How can you prevent tooth sensitivity?
The best way to prevent tooth sensitivity is to take good care of your teeth and gums. Here are some tips to help you:
• Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste that is specially designed for sensitive teeth. Use gentle strokes and avoid scrubbing too hard.
• Floss your teeth once a day to remove plaque and food particles that can cause cavities and gum disease.
• Rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking acidic foods and beverages. This can help neutralize the acids and wash away any residue that can harm your enamel.
• Avoid biting or chewing on hard objects such as ice, pens, nails or popcorn kernels, which can crack or chip your teeth.
• Wear a mouthguard at night if you grind or clench your teeth. This can protect your teeth from excessive wear and tear.
• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can detect and treat any dental problems that can cause tooth sensitivity. Your dentist can also apply fluoride varnish or sealants to strengthen your enamel and protect your dentin.
How can you treat tooth sensitivity?
If you already have tooth sensitivity, don’t worry. There are treatments available that can help reduce your pain and discomfort. Depending on the cause and severity of your sensitivity, your dentist may recommend one or more of the following options:
• Desensitizing toothpaste: This type of toothpaste contains ingredients that block the nerve endings in the dentin from reacting to stimuli. You may need to use it for several weeks before you notice any improvement.
• Desensitizing gel: This is a gel that your dentist can apply to your sensitive teeth during a dental visit. It can provide immediate relief for up to six months.
• Fluoride varnish: This is a coating that your dentist can apply to your sensitive teeth during a dental visit. It can strengthen your enamel and reduce the transmission of stimuli to nerve endings.
• Dental bonding: This is a procedure where your dentist applies a tooth-coloured resin material to your exposed tooth root or dentin. It can cover up the sensitive area and protect it from stimuli.
• Root canal: This is a procedure where your dentist removes the infected or inflamed pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth) and seals the tooth with a filling or a crown. It can eliminate the source of pain and save the tooth from extraction.
Tooth sensitivity is not something you have to live with. By following good oral hygiene practices and seeking professional help when needed, you can manage your tooth sensitivity and pain and enjoy a healthy smile.
