tooth sensitivity
You are likely to have tooth sensitivity if you never dare to crack an ice cream because you already know that you will feel pain.
This short and sharp pain you feel is a very common problem that occurs when there is dentin exposure (inside the tooth) and reveals its microtubules (canals that run through the dentin to the center of the tooth, where the nerve is located). When these canals are exposed and eat/drink something cold, warm, sweet or sour, or even the touch of the toothbrush, these stimuli cross the canals and reach the nerve of the tooth, then pain arises.
Contents approached
There are two main reasons that lead to the exposure of the inner part of the tooth (dentin) and consequently dental sensitivity:
-
Gingival recession
caused mostly by gum disease or traumatic brushing; -
Enamel wear
The enamel, which is the visible outer part of the tooth, can wear out over time if you frequently consume acidic food and drinks and/or brush your teeth with excessive force.
What to do to decrease tooth sensitivity
In the clinic:
- Application of fluorine varnishes on affected areas;
- Application and topical fluorine in slab;
- Restoration of teeth*
*If you have already tried desensitizing your teeth in all less invasive ways and have no result, and if the wear on the tooth is too pronounced or if the cause is tooth decay, the affected area of the tooth must be reconstructed to decrease sensitivity.
At home:
- Use a soft brush, wash effectively but without excessive force*;
- The toothpaste must be specific for sensitivity;
- The electric brush can be an excellent ally for making less force when brushing;
- Reduce the intake of acidic foods and drinks that form the most porous enamel and thus exacerbate tooth wear;
- If you drink more acidic drinks, use a straw. And if you drink a little water, it can help to dilute the acidity.
If you have pain when consuming cold or hot food and drinks, it’s time to check the source of the problem and know if you have sensitivity in your teeth.
Make an appointment with our medical team to assess your case.
*You may be interested in:
Brushing: 10 mistakes to avoid – Order of Dentists
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