What causes tooth sensitivity and how can it be resolved?
Oct 08, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
Causes of tooth sensitivity may include poor dietary habits, aging, improper brushing techniques, dental caries, and periodontal disease. These issues can be addressed through general treatments, medications, or other methods under the guidance of a healthcare professional. It is advisable to reduce consumption of acidic foods, maintain good oral hygiene, use proper brushing techniques, and have regular dental check-ups to prevent tooth sensitivity and periodontal diseases.
Generally, tooth sensitivity may be caused by poor dietary habits, aging, improper brushing techniques, dental caries, or periodontitis. These issues can be addressed through general treatments, medications, and other methods under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Poor dietary habits
Frequent consumption of acidic foods or beverages, such as citrus fruits and carbonated drinks, may erode the enamel on the tooth surface, leading to tooth sensitivity. It is recommended to reduce intake of acidic foods and drinks, rinse the mouth after meals, and use fluoride toothpaste when brushing to strengthen teeth and improve resistance.
2. Aging
With age, gums gradually recede, exposing the roots of teeth and increasing tooth sensitivity, which may lead to the aforementioned symptoms. Regular dental check-ups and maintaining good oral hygiene are advised.
3. Improper brushing technique
Using a toothbrush with excessively hard bristles or incorrect brushing methods can wear down tooth enamel, exposing the dentin and making teeth more susceptible to external stimuli, resulting in sensitivity. It is important to adopt proper brushing techniques, such as the Bass brushing method, and avoid brushing too forcefully.
4. Dental caries (tooth decay)
Dental caries occurs when bacteria damage the hard tissues of the teeth. The acidic substances produced by bacteria erode the tooth's enamel and dentin, increasing sensitivity to external stimuli and causing tooth sensitivity. Additional symptoms may include tooth pain and difficulty chewing. Patients should follow medical advice and may be prescribed medications such as metronidazole tablets, aspirin tablets, or clindamycin hydrochloride capsules for treatment.
5. Periodontitis
Periodontitis is typically caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Inflammatory changes occur in the gum tissue and alveolar bone surrounding the teeth, leading to destruction of tooth-supporting structures and exposure of the tooth roots. Besides tooth sensitivity, symptoms may include gum bleeding, swollen and painful gums, and loose teeth. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients may use medications such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets, chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash, or minocycline hydrochloride tablets for treatment.
To prevent tooth sensitivity and periodontal diseases, it is important to reduce consumption of acidic foods, maintain good oral hygiene, use proper brushing techniques, and undergo regular dental check-ups.
