Tooth sensitivity is often pain inducing and discomforting. It can strike when we least expect it and throw us off our game. Eating and drinking, which we rely on to stay alive, can become a trial of acidic, hot and cold foods and drinks. In truth, anything to do with our mouth can dramatically affect our sense of wellbeing. This uber-sensitive realm is an intimate space best reserved for sensual things we enjoy, rather than unexpected sharp pain. Reactive teeth and what you can do about them? There are treatments available and therapeutic things to help.

“Tooth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, is a common dental problem characterized by sharp, temporary pain or discomfort in one or more teeth when exposed to certain stimuli. These stimuli can include hot or cold temperatures, sweet or acidic foods and drinks, or even brushing and flossing. If you’ve ever felt sudden tooth discomfort after eating something hot or cold, you may have sensitive teeth. This occurs when the underlying layer of your teeth (dentin) becomes exposed. “
– Hopkins Medicine

Tooth Sensitivity What Are The Causes?

You may well ask the question, why do I have sensitive teeth? Why me? There are a number of reasons why you may experience tooth sensitivity. Tooth decay is a well-known cause of reactivity, as the inner layers of the tooth get exposed through the hole that requires filling. Another common cause is the erosion of your tooth’s enamel, which is the hard outer layer of your teeth. There are several issues which can result in the erosion of enamel. These include overly aggressive brushing of your teeth, acidic foods and drinks eating the enamel away, and teeth grinding or bruxism. Cracked teeth is another much seen source of tooth sensitivity by dentists during their examinations of patients. These cracks can provide the means for substances to reach the nerve and engender a painful response.

Gum Disease Can Also Cause Tooth Sensitivity

Unfortunately, gum disease is a scourge impacting the world and periodontal diseases negatively affect the oral health of billions of people.

“Periodontal diseases are prevalent both in developed and developing countries and affect about 20-50% of global population. High prevalence of periodontal disease in adolescents, adults, and older individuals makes it a public health concern. Several risk factors such as smoking, poor oral hygiene, diabetes, medication, age, hereditary, and stress are related to periodontal diseases. “
– Nazir MA. Prevalence of periodontal disease, its association with systemic diseases and prevention. Int J Health Sci (Qassim). 2017 Apr-Jun;11(2):72-80. PMID: 28539867; PMCID: PMC5426403.

Gum disease can result in gum recession and this exposes the roots of teeth and can produce sensitivity. Receding gums from ageing and poor brushing technique are further causes of this painful reactivity.

Is Tooth Reactivity Something To Worry About?

Some of us are prone to grin and bear it, when it comes to things like tooth sensitivity. However, this is not a good idea because things like this are the body’s way of warning us about issues, which need to be addressed. Your teeth reactivity may be related to a more serious condition. It is always recommended that you see your local dentist for a check-up and let them know about your teeth sensitivity. Get it from the horse’s mouth. Your dental practitioner can examine your unique set of circumstances rather you relying on more general information gleaned from the Internet. Be further warned if your tooth reactivity is persistent, severe, and involves swelling or discolouration. Each and all of these signs are indications of more serious oral health conditions. Do not ignore the messages your body is sending you.

What Can You Do To Reduce & Fix Tooth Reactivity?

A reputable desensitising toothpaste can reduce the discomfort experienced. These contain ingredients designed to dampen the nerve signals and providing relief over time. Your dentist may recommend a fluoride application to strengthen the enamel of your teeth and this will reduce sensitivity. A dental sealant may be used to cover exposed surfaces if tooth roots are the problem from gum recession. Dental restorations may be the solution if damaged fillings and/or decay is the causational issue. This may involve a crown to restore the structure of the tooth. Dental bonding is another means for covering areas with exposed dentin. Treating bruxism to manage teeth grinding is another way of reducing tooth reactivity. Similarly, the treatment of underlying causes of the condition like gum disease will be another means for dentists to fix this issue. Gum grafting is yet another procedure that takes healthy tissue from one part of the mouth and grafts it to another.

Lifestyle Changes To Reduce Discomfort From Tooth Sensitivity

Sensitive teeth and what you can do about them? The good news is that the power is in your hands to reduce this painful condition. In tandem with your dentist you can apply lifestyle changes and expert help to manage reactivity of teeth in your oral cavity. Firstly, make sure that you are using a soft bristled toothbrush and refrain from aggressive brushing techniques. Unintentional self-harm via overdoing brushing with abrasive tools and pastes is a far too common cause of teeth sensitivity. Another thing to check for is if teeth grinding is a problem for you. Increase your monitoring for this via a partner whilst you sleep. Many folk are unaware that they are grinding their teeth in their sleep. Stress is a big cause of bruxism. Change your diet to avoid acidic foods and drinks which exacerbate teeth reactivity in the mouth. Teeth sensitivity is more common as we age and it can be a good idea to alter our diets accordingly. Obviously, give up smoking and vaping for both your oral health and general wellbeing. Drink less alcohol, as many of these drinks are acidic and make your teeth reactivity worse. Teeth sensitivity can be managed and the painful aspects reduced via some of these lifestyle changes. Talk to your dentist about the best options available for you.

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