Sensitive teeth can be a real pain, pardon the pun. If you have sensitive teeth you’ve no doubt wondered what causes this painful sensation. Sensitivity occurs when the inner dentine layer of the teeth becomes exposed. The hard outer layer is a very hard surface with no nerves so there is no pain association. Underneath the enamel is the inner protective layer of the teeth called dentine. Dentine is yellow (the dentine showing through thin enamel is what causes our teeth to appear yellow) and it contains nerves that begin at the pulp-the central nerve system of the teeth.
So what causes the sensitivity? When the nerves of this inner dentine become exposed sensitivity results. The dentine can become exposed when the enamel is worn away due to receding gums caused by brushing too vigorously or gum disease, hairline cracks resulting from teeth grinding and other causes, and repeated acid exposure from foods and beverages. A dental exam would be necessary to determine the cause of the sensitivity. A dentist would look for signs of abrasion or decay, and treatment would depend on the cause. Recommended treatments might include fillings, a varnish coating or a de-sensitizing toothpaste.
Possibly one of the most beneficial things you can do to reduce teeth sensitivity, though, is to reduce the frequency in which you consume acidic foods and beverages. The wearing away of enamel caused by substances we eat and drink can ultimately lead to severe tooth sensitivity. Discoloration, indentations and cracked teeth can also result from repeated exposure to acidic foods and beverages.
Soda is a major cause of acid erosion to teeth due to the carbonation it contains. Recent studies are also showing a significant link between sports drinks and tooth erosion. Researchers have found that prolonged consumption of sports drinks may be linked to a condition Collagen Plug After Tooth Extraction called erosive tooth wear. In this condition acids from these beverages slowly destroy the enamel coating of the teeth and leak into the dentine layer below. Teeth become softer and weaker over time and can result in severe tooth damage, even tooth loss, if not treated.
Brushing immediately after consuming these beverages in an effort to minimize their damaging effects is actually more harmful than helpful. Because tooth enamel becomes soft after acid exposure it’s quite important to wait at least one hour before brushing to allow the Teeth Pain Killer Tablet Name teeth to remineralize. When the enamel is in this softened state teeth are more susceptible to the abrasive properties of toothpaste. It’s also a good idea to swallow acidic beverages quickly to minimize the amount of time teeth are exposed to the acidic substance.
Soda and sports drinks are very acidic and can erode the surface of the teeth, leading to painful teeth sensitivity. Limit exposure to prevent your chances of developing sensitive teeth.