0
Who has never felt a sensation like a small “shock” or a sharp pain in the teeth while biting a popsicle on the beach? Or when you start chewing furiously a delicious slice of hot apple pie straight out of the oven?
Some may feel this sensation even after biting a grapefruit slice for breakfast or even with a simple breath of cold air on a snowy day.
Known as teeth sensitivity, this problem affects 57% of the population. People who feel it often must pay attention, as it can be a sign of problems related to teeth and oral tissue.
WHAT DOES IT HAPPENING INSIDE MY MOUTH?
Teeth sensitivity can be caused by two main factors.
The first is when the tooth enamel, which protects the sensitive inner part (dentine), suffers some sort of damage or just becomes thinner (which is already enough to affect the enamel protection).
With exposed dentine, elements that are very cold/hot or excessively acidic start a negative feeling (a remarkably sharp pain, usually) while touching it.
Another common reason is the gum recession. The gums retract and leave the tooth roots exposed, which creates pain or discomfort when it encounters very cold/hot or very acidic foods.
Both processes are generated by similar factors, compiled here in this article.
STIMULATE, DONT ANNIHILATE.
Many people have the illusion that brushing with excessive force or with more sudden movements will help them to have better oral hygiene. However, besides being a huge mistake, it also can breed several dental problems, including excessive sensitivity in the teeth.
Very harsh teeth brushing hurts the dental enamel, which leaves the dentine exposed and causes pain.
WATCH WHAT YOU EAT:
Hippocrates, the father of medicine in Ancient Greece, once said: “Let your food be your medicine, and let your medicine be your food”.
However, even among some so-called healthy foods, there is the issue of high acidity. Foods such as oranges, grapefruits, tomatoes, raw chocolate, red meat, and vinegar can even be healthy but have a high acidity index, which means that consumers should be moderated.
Carbonated beverages, alcoholic beverages, coffee, some types of tea, energy drinks, and other industrialized beverages should be avoided, both to avoid teeth sensitivity and for health in general.
Excessive sugar consumption in the diet is also a problem, as it wears out tooth enamel and causes gum problems, especially excessively sweet foods.
Another common problem, especially among vegans, is excessive nut consumption. These oilseeds usually stick to the dental surface, like sugary foods, which leads to wear and tear of the teeth, generating sensitivity and other problems (cavities, cracks, etc.).
IT IS ABOUT QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY:
Some individuals think that by using large amounts of toothpaste and mouthwash while brushing their teeth, they will have a deeper dental clean. This is just a mistake.
An excessive amount of toothpaste or mouthwash will only expose the teeth and tissues of the mouth to even more risks, especially to sensitivity. Common sense is required both to choose the right oral care products as well as to use them.
ALWAYS LISTEN TO YOUR DOCTOR:
It is well known that before more delicate dental clinical processes such as root canal, extractions, or crown placement, dentists give some recommendations in the days before the procedure.
Many people ignore these guidelines, thinking they are only empty recommendations or just useless advice, for no apparent reason.
This wrong attitude can cause several problems, the most recurrent being teeth sensitivity after procedures.
PEOPLE WITH GERD ARE HIGHLY SUSCEPTIBLE ALSO:
Individuals who suffer from GERD (an acronym for Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease), usually are affected by heartburn and acid reflux from the stomach to the esophagus, which consequently also affects the mouth.
This process wears out the tooth enamel in the same way and can affect the gums as well.
There is a high rate of people with GERD who are also affected by teeth sensitivity, unfortunately.
FEELING HELPLESS? DON’T WORRY!
There are several ways to combat teeth sensitivity. Most solutions require only a change in habits, nothing more.
First, we recommend that people affected by this problem seek out a certified dentist to see if it is just that or a more serious problem.
After a professional diagnosis, further guidance can be given.
BRUSH YOUR TEETH PROPERLY:
Seek professional guidance on how to brush your teeth correctly, using accurate movements and correct intensity, thus preserving the integrity of your teeth, gums, and oral tissue.
SWITCH TO A MORE ALKALINE DIET:
Swap foods with high acidity for more alkaline foods, which do not damage dental enamel.
Avoid excessive sugar, as well as drinks like soda, coffee, black tea, alcoholic beverages, and energy drinks, as it makes your teeth more susceptible to excessive sensitivity.
USE MOUTHWASH AND TOOTHPASTE PROPERLY:
Nature teaches us that excesses never help, but only hinder. Use moderate amounts of both toothpaste and mouthwash products, focusing more on brushing quality and flossing for more effective results.
AGAIN, LISTEN TO YOUR DOCTOR:
Before undergoing more delicate dental treatments (extractions, root canal etc.), strictly follow all the recommendations of your dentist.
Additionally, to avoid teeth sensitivity, you can also prevent other even more serious problems (bleeding gums, problems with healing, etc.) and still have a faster recovery.
AVOID GERD SYMPTOMS:
If you suffer from GERD, avoid reflux attacks by following a more alkaline diet, as we discussed earlier.
Another interesting solution for people with GERD is to sleep with the headboard slightly higher, at a slightly more inclined angle.
CONCLUSION:
Teeth sensitivity is a quite common problem, and you will rarely meet someone who has never had a similar sensation. It is usually caused by the wear of the tooth enamel or gum recession.
This sensation, although negative, is perfectly normal, but it still requires attention.
Do not neglect your oral health care. Follow this quick guide and never suffer from teeth sensitivity again.
Be sure to share this content, so more people can be positively affected by it.
Now you know so much about teeth whitening in Bangkok, come to the shop and book your appointment now. Teeth whitening in Thailand can provide lasting results with proper maintenance and care.
