How to Stop Sensitive Teeth Pain Immediately

Tooth sensitivity can be a harbinger of serious tooth and gum disorders. If you experience sudden pain in your teeth against hot, cold, sweet, sour or acidic foods and drinks, you may be experiencing this common dental health problem. Although this condition, which negatively affects daily life, is often neglected, it can lead to serious dental problems depending on the underlying causes. Well, what causes tooth sensitivity and what is good for tooth sensitivity? All the details are in this article...

What is tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is caused by the exposure of the dentin structure in the inner layer of the tooth, usually as a result of tooth enamel wear or gum recession. Dentin has small canals that are directly connected to the nerve endings. For this reason, when it comes into contact with external factors with consumed food and beverages, dental nerves are stimulated and cause sensitivity.

Tooth sensitivity is usually a sudden pain sensation. However, in some cases, this sensitivity and pain sensation becomes permanent and affects daily life extremely negatively.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

The main causes of tooth sensitivity are as follows:

Tooth enamel wear: Tooth enamel may become thinner and cause sensitivity due to reasons such as hard brushing, acidic foods or clenching.

Gum recession: When the gums recede, tooth roots are exposed and sensitivity increases.

Wrong tooth brushing technique: Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or excessive pressure brushing can damage the tooth enamel.

Tooth decay: Cavities damage the inner layers of the tooth, sending more stimuli to the nerves.

Acidic and sugary foods: Fizzy drinks, citrus fruits and sugary foods can cause tooth enamel to erode.

Teeth grinding (Bruxism): Unwitting clenching during sleep or during the day weakens the teeth.

Sensitivity after dental treatment: Temporary sensitivity may be experienced after procedures such as filling, root canal treatment, scaling or teeth whitening.

What are the symptoms of tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is characterised by sudden and sharp pains that often occur with certain triggers. Here are common symptoms:

• Pain in response to hot and cold foods (for example, aching teeth when consuming tea or ice cream)
• Sensitivity to sweet or acidic foods
• Discomfort when brushing teeth or using a toothbrush
• Aching sensation in the teeth when cold air is taken in through the mouth
• Sensitivity in the roots of the teeth due to gum recession

What is good for tooth sensitivity?

You can benefit from the following methods that are good for tooth sensitivity and reduce sensitivity:

Regular tooth brushing, flossing and mouthwash

Regular tooth brushing using appropriate products helps reduce tooth sensitivity. In addition, flossing and mouthwash are also good for tooth sensitivity.

Special toothpaste for sensitivity

Specially formulated toothpastes for sensitive teeth help to reduce tooth sensitivity by protecting the nerve endings of the teeth. Toothpastes containing potassium nitrate or strontium chloride should be preferred.

Soft-bristled toothbrush

Hard-bristled toothbrushes can damage tooth enamel and increase sensitivity. Brush your teeth gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Correct brushing technique

Avoid applying too much pressure when brushing your teeth. Brush gently in a circular motion to avoid damaging the gums. Brushing teeth with the correct tooth brushing technique is good for tooth sensitivity.

Avoid acidic and sugary foods

Acidic and sugary foods can erode tooth enamel and increase sensitivity. Limit the consumption of fizzy drinks, sugar-rich fruits and sugary foods.

Using the right teeth whitening products

Do not use teeth whitening products without the approval of your dentist. Using the wrong teeth whitening product increases tooth sensitivity.

Transparent aligners against teeth grinding habit

If you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, you can protect your teeth by using aligners at night.

Regular dental check-ups

Tooth sensitivity can be a symptom of a serious underlying problem. Therefore, it is important to visit your dentist regularly. Early diagnosis and treatment of dental diseases is advantageous both in terms of treatment time and cost.

What is good for tooth sensitivity at home?

Natural methods can also be applied to alleviate the problem of tooth sensitivity at home:

1. Salt water mouthwash: Thanks to its antiselitic properties, it can soothe the gums.
2. Gargle with baking soda: It can help strengthen tooth enamel.
3. Coconut oil: Coconut oil can reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth.
4. Aloe vera gel: Aloe vera gel has a soothing effect on the gums. Toothpastes containing aloe vera gel can be preferred for sensitive teeth.

What happens if tooth sensitivity is not treated?

If tooth sensitivity is neglected, it can lead to serious problems such as tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss. It is also possible for the teeth to become brittle as the tooth enamel weakens. Therefore, it is very important to take early precautions when signs of sensitivity are noticed.

Tooth sensitivity is a preventable and treatable condition. It is possible to control sensitivity with proper oral care habits and appropriate treatment methods. If your tooth sensitivity persists for a long time, it is the healthiest solution to get professional support by consulting a dentist.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, you can contact the specialised dentists of the Private Sarıyer Denta Vita Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic serving in Istanbul. Please call us for your questions about tooth sensitivity and for a pre-examination appointment.