Teeth Sensitivity : Causes & Treatment Available

When dealing with sensitive teeth, even usual activities like brushing, eating and drinking, can cause sharp, tingling pain in your teeth. Sensitive teeth are the result of damaged tooth enamel or exposed tooth roots. However, toothache can be caused by other factors as well, like a cavity, a cracked or chipped tooth, a loose filling, or gum problems.

The symptoms for sensitive teeth can be and may vary as per the seriousness of the issue:

- Mild to sharp pain while eating or drinking something sweet, hot or cold.

- Holes or pits in your teeth (may or may not be noticeable)

- Brown, black or white staining on any surface of a tooth

- Pain when you bite

The causes may range from an old cracked or chipped tooth to eating or drinking acidic foods and drinks, like cola and soda drinks, citrus fruits and wine. Acidic food and drinks that are known to contribute to eroding small amounts of tooth enamel over time.

That’s why for dental care it’s suggested that while drinking acidic liquids, use a straw so contact with the teeth is restricted. And once done with eating or drinking an acidic substance best gargle or rinse your mouth with water to balance the acid levels in the mouth.

Teeth sensitivity may also be caused by bruxism or better known as constant teeth grinding that occurs during sleep. And if you have a habit of grinding your teeth while asleep, it can fracture your teeth and cause sensitivity.

You can prevent sensitive teeth by brushing teeth twice a day with a toothbrush that has soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste and by flossing every day (ask the doctor at the dental clinic for prescribed toothpaste and floss). Brush teeth using gentle strokes (up-down strokes), rather than vigorous or rough cleaning, also avoid using a strong toothpaste. 

For dental treatment that last, regular follow-up as asked by your dentist is recommended. ng, also avoid using a strong toothpaste.