Nothing feels better than a cool drink or a perfect, sweet bowl of shaved ice on a hot day — that is, until you feel that jolt of tooth sensitivity shoot through your teeth.
Tooth sensitivity is the source of much stress and anxiety for some, which is why many falsehoods about the subject have cropped up over the years. Here are a few persistent tooth sensitivity myths — busted!
Myth #1: Only Cold Foods Cause Sensitivity
Not true. When exposed dentine comes into contact with anything cold, hot, sweet or sour, it can trigger the nerves and cause discomfort as well. That is why even breathing in cold air through your mouth may trigger the same sensation.
Myth #2: Tooth Sensitivity is Caused by Cavities
This one is true, although not all the time. Cavities will definitely cause your teeth to be more sensitive than usual.
However, even without decay, your teeth may still feel the pinch from time to time. That is because teeth sensitivity is the result of your enamel being worn out over time or your gum line receding, thus exposing softer tissue underneath. It’s like when your nice thick sweater gets thinned out with use, which can leave you shivering if a cold breeze hits — not comfortable!
Myth #3: Brushing Your Teeth as Often as Possible Prevents Sensitivity
Brushing your teeth is a great thing for the most part. However, doing so right after a meal may not be such a good idea.
After eating or drinking, our teeth’s outer layers are softened, which means acids from the food may be rubbed into the enamel, thus breaking them down and causing tooth sensitivity. Hence that is why it is a good idea to wait a while before brushing.
Once the enamel is worn out, you are stuck with the sensitivity, right? Not true.
Depending on the cause of sensitivity, you may want to use special desensitising toothpaste or other forms of treatment. For example, they might “paint on” special resins or agents that protect sensitive areas of your teeth — though these can wear off after a while. Another option is Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief toothpaste, which plugs and seals exposed dentin openings. The result? Sensitivity-inducing stimuli, like heat and cold, are blocked — and you can bite into life without hesitation once again.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
