Learn More About Teeth Sensitivity

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While slight discomfort after eating ice cream is normal, dental sensitivity can feel the other way around. Here’s the list of common indications that you have sensitive teeth:

• Painful eating. Biting or chewing makes you wince.
• Trouble with oral hygiene routine. You may notice your teeth hurt when you brush or floss them.
• Unpleasant reaction to certain foods and beverages. If you find that eating cold, hot, acidic, and sugary foods and drinking such beverages is painful for your teeth, you are more likely to experience sensitivity.

If you’re experiencing these signs and symptoms, it’s important to see a dental professional for a dental checkup and determine the ideal course of action to provide you relief.

Several factors can contribute to the development of teeth sensitivity. Including the following:

• Chipped teeth. When your enamel (outer layer of the teeth) has cracked, the dentin (inner layer) is exposed. This means bacteria or other stimuli can reach the pulp and cause inflammation and sensitivity.
• Tooth decay. Severe decay can, later on, create a cavity or hole in your tooth, exposing the inner parts to stimuli, such as hot or cold temperatures and even air.
• The buildup of plaque and tartar. Your tooth enamel erodes over time with exposure to plaque and tartar. Once they wear away, they can no longer protect your teeth from hot, cold, sweet, or sour sensations.
• Brushing your teeth too hard. Brushing your teeth vigorously with a hard-bristled toothbrush can gradually hurt your enamel and cause sensitivity.
• Gum disease. The inflammation and soreness of the gum tissue can cause the loss of supporting ligaments, or gum recession, which exposes the root surface that leads directly to the nerve of the tooth.
• Bruxism. Teeth grinding or clenching can add excessive pressure on your chewing surfaces, weakening them.
• Recent dental procedures. You may experience sensitive teeth following a reaction to dental restoration materials or treatments. This is a temporary condition that usually subsides within a few weeks. In the meantime, you can do a few things to help alleviate your sensitivity.

If you have sensitive teeth, there are some things you need to keep in mind to prevent triggering the sensitivity:

• Limit your intake of hot and cold foods and drinks.
• Try to cut back on foods high in acid and sugar, as they can worsen enamel erosion.
• Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and change it regularly.
• Avoid brushing your teeth too harsh.
• Do not use teeth whitening products because they often contain ingredients that can aggravate sensitivity or irritation.

While your sensitive teeth may require a trip to see your dentist, there are several things you can do at home that may help relieve the discomfort:

• Opt for desensitising toothpaste. Using such toothpaste may be essential in managing sensitivity at home. It contains ingredients such as potassium nitrate, which protects the dentin and prevents irritants from reaching the nerve endings.
• Saltwater rinse. Gargling with warm salt water may help to minimise discomfort from sensitive teeth. Salt is well-known for having anti-bacterial properties, which may ease inflammation.
• Eat nutritious foods. Including more Vitamin D and A in your diet is essential for strengthening tooth enamel and reducing pain sensitivity. Add dairy products, leafy greens, and fruits and vegetables into your daily routine.

Good oral hygiene is the key to preventing sensitivity and keeping your teeth healthy. Here are some ways to be mindful:

• Gently brush your teeth daily.
• Floss between your teeth to avoid the accumulation of food debris.
• Use less abrasive toothpaste.
• If you grind your teeth, consider wearing a mouth guard at night to protect your teeth from further wear and tear.
• Keep up with your routine dental visits so that any dental work can be performed to reduce the sensitivity.