Sensitivity in the teeth happens when there is some kind of wear of the dental enamel, exposing the dentin, which is an inner layer that surrounds the nerves of the teeth. Exposure of sensitive parts of the teeth causes a sensation of pain and discomfort, which can be triggered by contact with hot, cold, sweet or acidic drinks or foods, and the intensity varies according to the size of the wear and area exposed dentin.
To treat this change and alleviate the symptoms, it is necessary to consult with the dentist, who can indicate the strengthening of the sensitized areas with options such as toothpaste or fluoride varnish, and, if necessary, restore the areas that have lost the enamel.
Main causes
1. Very aggressive brushing
Brushing teeth more than 3 times a day or with a hard bristle brush can favor the wear and tear of tooth enamel, resulting in increased sensitivity.
2. Gingival retraction
Gingival retraction, which is when there is a decrease in the amount of gingiva that covers one or more teeth, can happen due to dental diseases or wrong brushing and results in greater exposure of dentin, which is a tissue that constitutes the tooth and which is located close to the root, making teeth more sensitive, in addition to increasing the risk of infections. Learn how to treat gingival retraction.
3. Grinding your teeth at night
Bruxism, which is a condition in which a person involuntarily gnashes his teeth at night, can result in the wear of enamel on several teeth, increasing sensitivity. In addition to the increased sensitivity in the teeth, the act of grinding the teeth can result in problems in the joint that connects the jaw to the skull.
4. Dental treatments
Dental treatments such as teeth whitening, cleaning or restoration can increase the sensitivity of the teeth, as they cause a temporary erosion of the tooth enamel.
5. Consumption of very acidic or citrus foods
Some foods can erode tooth enamel and encourage tooth decay, which can make your teeth more sensitive. Foods that are too acidic or citrusy, like lemon, vinegar and pineapple, or too sweet, like cakes and chocolates, for example, can increase tooth sensitivity. Know other foods that can be harmful to your teeth.
How the treatment is done
To treat sensitive teeth, the dentist will investigate the cause and will be able to guide some treatments, such as:
- Application of fluoride varnish to exposed areas to help reconstitute the enamel;
- Use of foam or fluoride gel in contact with the teeth for a few minutes, to strengthen the dental surface and relieve sensitive areas;
- Restoration of areas that have lost enamel, to waterproof the dentin surface;
- Laser treatment that contains analgesic and anti-inflammatory action to reduce hypersensitivity and accelerate the composition of the layer that covers the teeth;
- Surgery to correct the retracted gum, if this is the cause of the sensitivity of the teeth.
In addition, some precautions must be followed at home to prevent wear and help with treatment, such as not using force in brushing, mouthwashing with fluoride containing rinses and using a toothpaste specially formulated to relieve tooth sensitivity, such as Sensodyne, Colgate sensitive, Oral B pro-sensitive or Aquafresh sensitive, for example.
There are also homemade options, to complement the treatment with the dentist, that can help relieve symptoms, such as preparing an echinacea tea with vitamin C or using clove essence. Learn the recipe on home remedy for tooth sensitivity.
Was this information helpful?
Yes No
Your opinion is important! Write here how we can improve our text:
Any questions? Click here to be answered.
Email in which you want to receive a reply:
Check the confirmation email we sent you.
Your name:
Reason for visit:
--- Choose your reason --- DiseaseLive betterHelp another personGain knowledge
Are you a health professional?
NoMedicalPharmaceuticalsNurseNutritionistBiomedicalPhysiotherapistBeauticianOther
