Know the Causes of Sensitive Teeth and the Solution

Sensitive teeth are a condition where there is pain and tenderness in the teeth. This occurs when the teeth over-respond to certain stimuli, for example when consuming foods or drinks that are too hot or cold.

Tooth sensitivity can occur temporarily or in the long term, in either one or several teeth.

Causes of Sensitive Teeth

For food lovers, eating freshly served food and sipping cold drinks can be a satisfaction in itself because it tastes more delicious. Various foods, including sweet and sour tastes, and soft drinks certainly do not go unnoticed.

But do you know? This habit makes you susceptible to sensitive teeth, you know! Especially if you neglect to take care of your dental and oral health regularly. Gradually the layer of enamel or enamel on the teeth can be eroded so that the teeth become sensitive and prone to pain.

In addition to the food that is too hot or cold, there are several factors that can also cause sensitive teeth, namely:

• Brushing your teeth too hard and hard, using a toothbrush with coarse bristles, and grinding your teeth while sleeping.
• Use of mouthwash that contains alcohol or performs teeth whitening procedures.
• Frequent vomiting, for example, due to gastric acid reflux disease (GERD), gastric emptying disorders (gastroparesis), and bulimia.
• The habit of grinding or grinding teeth ( bruxism ).

Sensitive teeth problems can also be experienced by pregnant women due to hormonal changes during pregnancy. In addition, during pregnancy, teeth become susceptible to bacteria that cause dental and oral health problems that trigger plaque buildup, causing swollen and inflamed gums.

In addition to pregnant women, sensitive teeth are also prone to be experienced by the elderly. This is because when you enter old age, your gums will shrink and make your teeth more sensitive.

Saliva production can also decrease with age or as a side effect of certain medications, making teeth more prone to decay and eventually triggering tooth sensitivity.

Solutions to Overcome Sensitive Teeth

To treat mild sensitive teeth, you can use toothpaste with a special formula for sensitive teeth. Choose a toothpaste for sensitive teeth that contains the minerals hydroxyapatite (HAP), potassium citrate, and zinc citrate.

Based on research results, the mineral hydroxyapatite (HAP) can help repair tooth enamel and maintain tooth strength longer. In a clinical trial, toothpaste containing potassium citrate was proven to be effective in reducing pain in sensitive teeth. While the content of zinc citrate is useful for cleaning plaque and protecting the teeth and mouth from bacteria.

The combination of hydroxyapatite (HAP), potassium citrate, and zinc citrate in toothpaste is said to help reduce pain in 30 seconds and prevent it from coming back.

If the complaint of sensitive teeth makes it difficult to eat, you should consult a dentist. There are several treatment options for sensitive teeth that are usually recommended by dentists, namely:

• Use a dentist-prescribed toothpaste.
• Medical procedures for the teeth and mouth, such as root closure procedures with special materials, root canal treatment ( root canal ), or gum surgery, if there are problems with the teeth and gums.
• Referral to an internist, if the cause is GERD.
• Referral to a psychiatrist, if complaints of sensitive teeth caused by bulimia.

Prevents Sensitive Teeth from Coming Back

In order to prevent complaints of sensitive teeth from coming back, you must regularly take care of your oral health by:

• Brush your teeth twice a day, in the morning and at night before going to bed.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and don't brush your teeth too hard or too hard.
• Clean between the teeth with dental floss.
• If you want to use a mouthwash, choose a product that contains fluoride and is alcohol-free.
• Avoid using teeth whiteners or performing teeth whitening procedures.
• Sufficient fluid intake every day by drinking lots of water.
• Avoid consuming foods or drinks that can trigger toothache, such as foods and drinks that are too hot or cold.
• Do not brush your teeth immediately after consuming acidic foods or drinks, including soft drinks. Gargle with water first, then wait up to 30 minutes before brushing your teeth.
• Do regular checkups to the dentist, every 6 months.

If the complaint of sensitive teeth does not improve after you try some of the ways above, immediately consult a dentist. The dentist will find out the cause of your sensitive teeth, then provide appropriate treatment and treatment.