All about tooth hypersensitivity

Symptoms of tooth hypersensitivity

Tooth hypersensitivity can significantly affect the comfort of life, causing pain or discomfort in response to various stimuli. Here are the most common symptoms:

• Pain when consuming cold or hot drinks and foods — this is the most typical symptom of tooth sensitivity. The pain can be sharp and violent, appearing suddenly in response to a change in temperature.
• Discomfort when consuming sweet or sour foods and drinks — some people also experience pain when their teeth come into contact with very sweet or acidic substances.
• Pain when brushing or flossing — Sensitive teeth can react with pain even to daily hygiene activities, which can lead to avoiding these practices and worsening oral health.
• Cold air pain — Cold air inhaled through the mouth can cause sudden and sharp pain in sensitive teeth.
• General discomfort in the teeth for no apparent reason — some people may experience continuous, dull pain or discomfort that is not directly related to a specific stimulus.

Tooth hypersensitivity can be caused by various factors, such as gum receding, enamel erosion, tooth cracks, tooth abrasion (bruxism), or dental procedures. If you experience these symptoms, it is worth consulting a dentist who will help diagnose the cause and suggest appropriate treatment or remedies.

Causes of tooth hypersensitivity

Tooth sensitivity can have many causes. Understanding them is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of problems. Among the main factors are:

• Enamel erosion: excessive consumption of acidic foods and drinks (eg citrus, wine, carbonated drinks) can gradually dissolve the enamel, exposing more sensitive tissues.
• Excessive brushing: brushing too hard or using a hard brush can cause abrasion of the enamel and the gums to recede, exposing the roots of the teeth.
• Gum Retraction: age-related, gum disease (eg periodontitis) or aggressive brushing, leads to the exposure of the roots of the teeth.
• Cracks in the teeth: allow the penetration of stimuli into the inside of the tooth, causing pain.
• Tooth wear: bruxism (gnashing of teeth) can lead to excessive abrasion of enamel.
• Dental treatments: such as teeth whitening, can temporarily increase sensitivity.
• Cavities and caries: when caries reaches the dentin, it increases the sensitivity of the tooth.
• Exposed roots: Diseases of the gums or improper hygiene, are more sensitive, since they are not covered with enamel.
• Sudden temperature changes: eating very hot or cold foods can trigger pain in hypersensitive teeth.

When to go to the dentist?

Tooth hypersensitivity can not only be a nuisance, but also a signal of other health problems. A visit to the dentist is necessary when:

• The pain lasts more than a few days without a clear cause.
• There is a sudden increase in sensitivity to cold, heat or pressure.
• Pain appears when eating sweet or sour foods.
• Hypersensitivity limits the ability to eat or drink.
• Brushing or flossing your teeth causes pain.
• Changes such as gingival retraction, cracks or cavities are visible in the mouth.
• Symptoms do not go away despite the use of home remedies.

Regular check-ups help in the early detection and treatment of hypersensitivity problems.

Treatment of hypersensitivity of teeth

Treatment depends on the cause, but generally aims to reduce pain and protect teeth from further damage. The methods of treatment are:

• Specialized toothpastes containing potassium nitrate or potassium citrate, which block the conduction of pain.
• Professional fluoridation to strengthen enamel.
• Putting on crowns or other guards to protect the teeth.
• Bonding, veneers or fillings to protect exposed roots and repair cavities.
• Gum surgery, such as transplants, if the gums recede.
• Root canal treatment as a last resort with persistent sensitivity.
• Change hygiene habits: using a soft brush, brushing gently, avoiding acidic and sweet foods.
• Wearing braces for teeth in case of bruxism.

Pain relief at home

Home methods can bring relief, but they will not replace professional care. Recommended are:

• The use of toothpastes for people with sensitive teeth.
• Rinses from saline or baking soda solution to reduce inflammation and neutralize acidic pH.
• Limiting the consumption of acidic and sweet foods and drinks.
• Gentle brushing with a soft brush.
• Massaging the gums with special rubber bands in case of gum receding.
• Drinking sour or cold drinks through a straw to limit contact with your teeth.
• Avoiding carbonated and energy drinks.

In conclusion, tooth hypersensitivity is a problem that can significantly reduce the comfort of life. While home remedies may provide temporary relief, it is crucial to consult a dentist to determine the cause and implement effective treatment. Regular hygiene, a healthy diet and check-ups help prevent hypersensitivity and keep oral health at a high level.