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Sensitivity in the teeth: how to alleviate the problem

Sensitivity in the teeth: how to alleviate the problem

Tooth sensitivity can be understood as a pain or nuisance in the tooth caused by contact with hot, sweet or acidic foods. The pain has a short duration and is caused by problems in the dentin, tissue located between the enamel and the pulp, responsible for the protection of the teeth.

Person with pain due to tooth sensitivity - Photo: Getty Images

"The dentin contains a large numbers of pores or tubules that originate on the outside of the tooth and go to the nerve in the center of the tooth.When the dentine is exposed, these tubules are stimulated by changes in temperature or certain foods, thus causing the uncomfortable sensation " , explains Denise Caluta Abranches (CRO SP-CD-75559), professor and coordinator of the Dental Service of the Federal University of São Paulo (Unifesp).

Causes of sensitivity in teeth

Dental sensitivity is mainly caused by loss of enamel or gingival retraction. One of the main factors that causes this problem is the consumption of acidic foods, such as soft drinks, citrus fruits, and vinegar. What happens is that in the medium and long term, the ingestion of these foods can lead to loss of the enamel, exposing parts of the teeth very sensitive.

The lack of hygiene causes the appearance of bacterial plaque, a problem responsible for gingival retraction, consequently , facilitating the increase of dental sensitivity. Likewise, exaggerated brushing may also facilitate the onset of the problem. Because it can cause gingival recession and wear of the enamel, thus leaving the dentin unprotected.

Woman grinding her teeth - Photo: Getty Images

Bruxism, a habit of squeezing and grinding teeth, causes wear and loss of enamel. According to the dental surgeon Silvio Cecchetto (CRO SP-CD-15655), president of the Brazilian Association of Dental Surgeons, some procedures performed in the dental office can also trigger the problem - even more rarely. One example is tooth whitening. The method causes mild irritation to the pulp cells located inside the tooth.

The time to remove fixed orthodontic appliances can also cause discomfort to the teeth due to movement in the area.

It is important to identify the cause of the problem so that it can be achieved recommending the right treatment for each case and getting the best result.

Foods that cause pain

When the tooth enamel is worn and the dentin is exposed the consumption of some foods can cause irritation and pain.

Acid foods such as soft drinks, citrus juices and wine

  • Iced foods and drinks, such as ice creams
  • Very hot foods and beverages such as soups, coffee and tea
  • Treatments for tooth sensitivity
  • The choice of treatment is made taking into account the intensity of the problem

There are different ways to treat tooth sensitivity. The choice of treatment is made taking into account the intensity of the problem and the patient's oral health. "The forms can range from gingival surgeries to dental root coverage, desensitizing agent applications, dental restorations, and the use of some specific toothpaste, indicated for the treatment of hypersensitivity," says Leticia Helena Theodoro (SP-CD-54419 ), professor of the Periodontics Department of the Paulista State University (Unesp - Araçatuba).

The desensitizers are "varnishes" that the dentist applies in the office to treat the problem and, if there is a large erosion in the area, he can recommend the placement of a resin to close the place and end the pain. the use of toothpastes for this purpose, Professor Denise explains that "they have specific properties, which close the open tubules in the dentin and provide pain relief."

But attention is drawn to treating sensitivity in teeth and

Prevention of sensitivity to teeth

Since dentine wear can be caused mainly by mechanical problems (brushing, trauma), chemistry ( feeding or procedures) and periodontal (gum disease), to prevent tooth sensitivity you can:

Use toothbrushes with soft bristles

Brush teeth and gums in circles and without applying excessive force Avoiding the consumption of very acidic foods, such as soft drinks

Treating problems such as bruxism, since the biting and / or grinding force characteristic of the teeth can also wear out the tooth