Who has never felt a little pain when tasting something very cold (or very hot)? This happens because of tooth hypersensitivity. This problem affects 32% of the population, but do you know what causes tooth sensitivity?

It is not just very cold or very hot foods that can cause tooth sensitivity, but several factors such as diseases, poor brushing, bruxism and even foods are among the reasons that can generate this discomfort.

What is tooth sensitivity?

Popularly known as enamel sensitivity, the pain is acute and momentary and happens because of the exposure of the dentin – a porous layer connected to the critical nerve. The visible a part of the teeth is referred to as the crown, it is included by using enamel and the dentin is beneath the teeth teeth.

When the enamel wears away (or there’s a displacement of the gums) the dentin turns into exposed, and because the dentin is connected to the pulp – where the teeth’s nerves and vessels are placed – it causes us to feel pain whilst it is affected.

Therefore, every time the dentin comes into contact with external factors such as sweets, cold drinks or even cold air from breathing, it can trigger pain and discomfort in the region.

Factors that can make teeth sensitive

There are many things which can cause enamel sensitivity. Most people who be afflicted by this condition think that positive ingredients reason ache when they arrive into touch with their teeth, together with ice cream, sweets, among other things.

However, this situation might also sincerely be a sign that the teeth teeth has worn away, as opposed to the meals itself causing the sensitivity.

It can contribute to enamel degeneration, but there are still many reasons why teeth may develop sensitivity, from oral problems to bruxism.

1. Oral health problems

The pain resulting from teeth sensitivity is normally acute and short-lived, but relying on the diploma of dentin publicity, this ache may be greater severe and arise extra regularly.

One of the principle reasons of teeth sensitivity is troubles associated with oral fitness, from hygiene behavior to habitual problems. See under for some examples.

Main oral problems that cause tooth sensitivity:

• Gum recession : when the gums recede, leaving the tooth root exposed. This can happen due to inadequate brushing, gingivitis or even with the passing of time and age;
• Cavities: Cavities can also cause tooth sensitivity, especially if they are deep, located at the root of the tooth or in areas where the enamel is thinner. The pain is more intense and constant in this case;
• Malocclusion: This is an abnormal alignment of the upper and lower teeth. This set of defects can cause a crossbite and an open bite. This can happen because the jaw is too small for the teeth, or because the canines are larger than normal, or even because of childhood habits such as thumb sucking.

In addition to these factors, some dental treatments can also cause temporary sensitivity. These include: fillings, whitening, cleaning and orthodontic appliances.

2. Acidic Foods and Drinks

Some food and drinks can also regularly reduce the thickness of your tooth teeth. So if you have teeth sensitivity, try to avoid spicy and sweet foods, as well as citrus liquids.

If you are not able to comb your tooth after consuming or consuming any of those ingredients or beverages, rinse your mouth with water to relieve the effect of the acidity (remembering which you must no longer brush your teeth straight away after eating, but instead wait at least 30 minutes).

Foods and drinks that cause tooth sensitivity:

• Soft drinks;
• Beer;
• Coffee;
• Vinegar;
• Tomato;
• Citrus fruits (lemon, pineapple, orange, etc.);
• Yogurt;
• Isotonic;
• Pepper;
• Aged cheeses;
• Ketchup;
• Sweeteners and sweets in general.

3. Gastroesophageal reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux is the repetitive and involuntary return of stomach contents into the esophagus. Chewed meals passes thru the pharynx, the esophagus and finally into the belly. Between the esophagus and the belly there’s a valve that stops gastric juice from flowing lower back up the esophagus.

It is everyday for a certain amount of this substance to skip via, but while the quantities are too excessive, gastroesophageal reflux can arise.

Among the many signs that this ailment can reason, certainly one of them is teeth sensitivity, since the mouth isn’t always organized to receive the acidic contents of the belly. This substance can make contributions to the erosion of teeth teeth.

Habits including drinking numerous liquid all through meals and ingesting speedy can worsen the reflux state of affairs.

4. Bruxism

Bruxism is the habit of clenching or grinding your teeth. There are two types: nocturnal bruxism and diurnal bruxism (also known as awake bruxism).

Nocturnal bruxism is characterized by grinding of the teeth while the person is sleeping. This type of situation favors dental sensitivity, however, when the sensitivity is caused by bruxism, all the teeth – or the vast majority – become sensitive.

The friction that occurs at night can result in the enamel of several teeth being worn down and even in tooth fractures. In this case, a bite plate is usually recommended, but it is not always the best alternative .

In waking bruxism, the habit extends throughout the day. In some cases, there is no presence of teeth grinding. What most defines waking bruxism is the clenching or tension of the facial muscles.

This condition can occur due to a lot of tension and stress or due to activities that require concentration.

This means that the patient’s teeth remain touching for a long time without even realizing it. Over time, tooth sensitivity may develop.

That’s why it’s important to seek out an orofacial pain specialist so they can assess your case and recommend the right treatment for each type of bruxism.

5. Abrasive toothpaste

Just as acidic foods can harm your teeth’s natural protection, a toothpaste that is too strong can also increase the wear and tear of tooth enamel.

Mainly those that have a whitening effect. To obtain such a result, the whitening toothpaste polishes the enamel and removes pigmentation acquired over the years.

However, if used for a long period of time, they can cause tooth enamel to wear down. Therefore, use this type of toothpaste sparingly and try to switch to regular toothpastes.