If you are experiencing a sharp, stabbing sensation or a dull aching tooth, here’s what you can do. Identifying which foods are setting off the pain can temporarily reduce your discomfort, but tooth sensitivity is usually a sign that’s there’s a more significant problem. If you have pain while you are eating or even after you eat, call your dentist and schedule an appointment so they can figure out the cause and recommend the best treatment for your case.
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity could be a result of the dentin inside of the tooth being exposed. Teeth are coated with enamel above the gum line and cementum below the gum line. Enamel and cementum guard dentin, which is a delicate yellowish brown dental mineral packed with tubules that connect to the inner nerve pulp. If these protective coatings dissipate, any changes in temperature in the mouth can move through these tubules into the nerve of the tooth. Conditions like enamel erosion, cavities, gum disease, exposed tooth roots and tooth fractures all can expose dentin triggering pain in the tooth.
Tooth Nerves
The nerves of the tooth are susceptible to stimulation, unlike enamel, cementum, and dentin. The nerves being sensitive to stimulation is helpful because it signals us when there is an issue with our teeth. If the tooth nerves are irritated, there could be pain. Hot and cold temperatures and acidic foods or foods high in sugar can aggravate the nerves in your teeth and cause pain.
Foods to Avoid
Some foods that could irritate tooth nerves and should be avoided include:
- Citrus fruits
- Pickles
- Tomatoes
- Candy
- Cookies
Let hot food cool before eating and avoid frozen items such as ice cream and ice cubes and other chilled foods. Beverages high in sugar such as soda could trigger sensitivity, and it should be noted that soda contains phosphoric and citric acid, which destroys tooth enamel.
How to Treat Tooth Nerve Pain
To treat tooth nerve pain effectively, brush your teeth correctly, use a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth and see your dentist. Scrubbing harshly at your teeth erodes enamel and can harm your gums, potentially exposing the roots of the tooth. The best toothbrush for sensitive teeth is a soft bristle toothbrush held it at 45 angle, brushing in back and forth motions along the gum line. Having pain while eating is indeed not ideal. Luckily, there are several ways to treat tooth sensitivity starting with a visit to the dentist.
Miracle Smile Dentistry is the best dental practice in South Florida, Dr. Anna Aller and Associates know how crucial it is to treat a hurting mouth. Their dental offices in Coral Gables and Plantation make it easy for your to schedule an appointment and ask any questions about payments options including financing and dental insurance. Click here to schedule your appointment.
