Do you know the feeling of sharp pain and ache in your teeth when you drink hot tea, cold soda or eat ice cream? If yes, then you may have sensitive teeth. This is a disease that today affects a large part of the adult population at some point in life, but which, fortunately, is successfully treated.
Teeth become sensitive when the gums recede, exposing part of the tooth called dentin. This soft layer under the enamel makes up the inside and roots, which are pierced by thousands of tiny tubules that lead to the nerve endings of the tooth. When the dentin is exposed to irritants such as hot, cold or sweet food, these irritants reach the nerve of the tooth, resulting in a sharp pain.
10 causes of tooth sensitivity and elementary ways to get rid of this problem
- Too much cleaning. If you brush too vigorously while brushing your teeth, you can do more harm than good. Too much movement and pressure, combined with a hard bristle brush, can cause rapid wear of the tooth surface and expose dentin. Take a close look at your toothbrush. If the bristles are flat or crossed, you run the risk of putting too much pressure on your teeth. The easiest way out is to buy a toothbrush with soft bristles.
- Toothpaste doesn't work. Some toothpastes increase tooth sensitivity. Among these pastes are whitening ones, designed to lighten tooth enamel and remove tartar. They contain sodium pyriphosphate, which does not have the best effect on tooth sensitivity. You should choose special pastes for sensitive teeth. These products contain the active ingredient, potassium nitrate, which helps to block the tiny tubules in the dentin. To notice the therapeutic effect, you must at least use such a paste. For faster results, try massaging your gums with your finger after brushing your teeth.
- Don't rush to clean. When you brush your teeth immediately after eating, especially if the food contains acid, you are not doing any good to your teeth. Brushing softens tooth enamel and makes it more vulnerable to erosion. If you have eaten or drunk something sour, wait at least 30 minutes before cleaning. If you are going to eat or drink something sour, it is best to brush your teeth beforehand.
- Don't grind your teeth. Grinding or scratching your teeth against your teeth damages the enamel. This exposes the dentin. Some people don't know that they "grind" their teeth in their sleep. If you wake up with a headache or a toothache, you may have been clenching your jaw in your sleep. Talk to a dentist who will prescribe overnight products to protect your teeth.
- Plaque. Plaque at the roots of a tooth can lead to tooth sensitivity. This is why it is extremely important to schedule regular dental cleanings.
- Use of conditioners. The feeling of minty freshness after using the mouthwash is definitely pleasant. But some fluids contain acids that can cause tooth sensitivity if the dentin is already present. Ask your dentist to prescribe a neutral mouthwash - a fluoride solution.
- Teeth whitening. There is nothing more beautiful than a radiant white smile. But whitening products are the main cause of sensitivity. A doctor may recommend fluoride treatment to reduce sensitivity symptoms.
- acidic foods. High acid foods and drinks wear down tooth enamel faster. The list of such products includes citrus fruits, tomatoes, soda, various pickles and tea. To minimize contact with your teeth, use a straw when drinking soda or tea. Limit your intake of acidic foods.
- Dental intervention. Teeth cleaning, root extraction, prosthodontics and restoration of teeth can make teeth sensitive. This sensitivity should go away over time (four to six weeks).
- Damaged teeth. Chipped teeth can cause sensitivity. In addition, bacteria can enter the pulp, causing inflammation and pain. See a dentist immediately if a tooth is chipped or crumbled.
Tooth sensitivity should not become a habit. Follow the above simple tips, so you can not only reduce the symptoms of the disease, but also eat and drink whatever you want without worrying about pain. If you have a tooth that is very sensitive and hurts for three or four days, reacts to hot and cold temperatures, see your dentist to determine the extent of the problem.
