10 Tips to Manage Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity can be an uncomfortable and often painful experience. It occurs when the protective layer of your teeth, known as enamel, becomes worn down, exposing the underlying dentin and nerve endings. 

This can lead to discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages. Tooth sensitivity can affect anyone at any age, but it is more common among those with poor oral hygiene, gum disease, and tooth decay. 

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to manage and prevent tooth sensitivity, and in this blog, we will provide you with tips to help alleviate the discomfort and improve your overall dental health.

• What is tooth sensitivity 

Tooth sensitivity is a condition that causes discomfort or pain in the teeth when exposed to certain stimuli such as hot or cold temperatures, sweet or acidic foods, and even cold air. The discomfort or pain in teeth is caused when the hard outer layer of enamel is eroded, revealing the dentin and nerve endings underneath. The exposure of dentin facilitates the transmission of sensations to the nerves of the teeth, leading to discomfort or pain.

• Importance of managing and preventing tooth sensitivity 

Managing and preventing tooth sensitivity is important for several reasons. Firstly, tooth sensitivity can significantly impact your quality of life by causing discomfort and pain when eating or drinking. This can affect your ability to enjoy certain foods and beverages, leading to a restricted diet and reduced enjoyment of life. 

Secondly, tooth sensitivity can be a sign of underlying dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, or enamel erosion. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to more serious oral health issues, including tooth loss and infections. Additionally, managing and preventing tooth sensitivity can help you maintain good oral hygiene practices, which are essential for overall health. 

Good oral hygiene can help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and other dental issues, reducing the risk of developing other health problems such as heart disease and diabetes. Finally, managing and preventing tooth sensitivity can also help you save money on dental treatments in the long run. By addressing sensitivity early on, you can avoid costly and invasive dental procedures down the line. 

Overall, managing and preventing tooth sensitivity is crucial for maintaining good oral and overall health, as well as improving your quality of life.

Causes of Tooth Sensitivity 

Tooth sensitivity can be caused by a variety of factors, including: 

1. Enamel erosion: The outer layer of teeth, called enamel, can wear away over time due to acidic foods and drinks, brushing too hard, or acid reflux disease. 
2. Gum recession: When the gums recede, the roots of teeth become exposed, which can cause sensitivity. 
3. Tooth decay: Cavities can expose the nerves of teeth, leading to sensitivity. 
4. Grinding or clenching teeth: These habits can wear down the enamel of teeth and cause sensitivity. 
5. Cracked teeth: Cracks or fractures in teeth can expose the sensitive inner layers, causing discomfort. 
6. Whitening treatments: Some teeth whitening treatments can cause temporary sensitivity. 
7. Dental procedures: After a dental procedure such as a filling or crown, teeth can be sensitive for a period of time. 
8. Certain foods and drinks: Hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks can trigger sensitivity in some people. 
9. Ageing: As we age, our gums can naturally recede, exposing the sensitive roots of teeth. 
10. Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to having sensitive teeth.

• Other factors that can contribute to sensitivity 

In addition to the causes mentioned earlier, there are several other factors that can contribute to tooth sensitivity, including: 

1. Brushing too hard: Brushing too aggressively or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear away tooth enamel and expose the sensitive inner layers. 
2. Mouthwash: Some mouthwashes contain alcohol or other harsh chemicals that can irritate the gums and cause sensitivity. 
3. Acidic foods and drinks: Consuming acidic foods and drinks such as citrus fruits, soda, and wine can erode tooth enamel and cause sensitivity.
4. Tobacco use: Smoking or using other tobacco products can contribute to gum disease, which can lead to sensitivity. 
5. Recreational drug use: Some recreational drugs such as ecstasy and cocaine can cause tooth sensitivity. 
6. Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or bulimia can cause acid to erode tooth enamel and lead to sensitivity. 
7. Hormonal changes: Women may experience increased tooth sensitivity during pregnancy or menopause due to hormonal changes. 
8. Stress: Stress can cause teeth grinding or clenching, which can wear away tooth enamel and cause sensitivity. 

Tips for Managing & Preventing Tooth Sensitivity 

Here are some tips for managing and preventing tooth sensitivity: 

1. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid wearing away tooth enamel. 
2. Use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth:
   
    Bliss Ultimate Whitening Kit
3. Toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth can help to alleviate discomfort and prevent further sensitivity.
4. Avoid acidic foods and drinks: Limit your intake of acidic foods and drinks that can erode tooth enamel, such as citrus fruits, soda, and wine. 
5. Practise good oral hygiene: Brush & floss twice a day, and visit your dentist for regular cleanings to prevent gum disease and tooth decay that can cause sensitivity. 
   
6. Wear a nightguard: If you grind or clench your teeth, wearing a nightguard can help to protect tooth enamel and prevent sensitivity. 
7. Quit smoking and drug use: Tobacco use and recreational drug use can contribute to gum disease, which can lead to sensitivity. 
8. Use fluoride: Fluoride can help to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity. 
9. Manage stress: If you tend to grind or clench your teeth due to stress, practising relaxation techniques or seeking therapy can help to reduce stress levels and prevent sensitivity. 
10. Address medical conditions: If you have a medical condition such as GERD or bulimia that is contributing to tooth sensitivity, seek medical treatment to manage the condition and prevent further damage to your teeth.

Conclusion 

Tooth sensitivity can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but there are many ways to manage and prevent it. By practising good oral hygiene, avoiding acidic and sugary foods and drinks, and wearing a mouthguard if you grind your teeth, you can help protect your teeth from further damage and reduce sensitivity. 

Additionally, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, managing stress, and consulting with your dentist can all help to alleviate tooth sensitivity and improve your overall oral health. 

By following these tips, you can take control of your tooth sensitivity and enjoy a healthy, pain-free smile. Remember to always consult with your dentist if you experience any persistent or severe tooth sensitivity.

“Also read - Food and beverages to promote healthy teeth & gums”