Having tooth pain when indulging in your favorite sweets is an unpleasant experience. You may not know, but this problem is quite common and does not necessarily mean you have cavities. In fact, take it as a warning signal – if your tooth hurts after eating sweets with no cavity, you must get in touch with a dentist for a thorough checkup. Let’s read more into this.
Understanding Sweet Tooth Sensitivity
If you have a sweet tooth, then you are no stranger to the discomfort that can follow after these sugary treats. Your dental health is bound to take a hit when you expose your teeth to a constant influx of sweet snacks and drinks. The main reason behind sensitivity is the loss of enamel due to erosion by the acids produced by bacteria reacting with sugar. The top-most protective layer fades away, making way for bacteria to wreak havoc inside, too!
9 Reasons behind Tooth Sensitivity to Sugar
If you find your tooth aching every time you have a sugary drink or snack, it is time to pay attention. Here are 9 major causes for this issue:
1. Tooth Enamel Erosion
The top three culprits are acids, bacteria, and aggressive brushing of teeth that wear away your enamel. Enamel erosion is often associated with issues like acid reflux or eating disorders. Unfortunately, your tooth does not have the power to regenerate, but you can prevent further damage by applying fluoride and crowns or veneers in severe cases.
2. Tooth Decay
Sweet foods or drinks can irritate the nerve tissues residing inside your tooth. The only treatment is to remove the decayed portion, clean the area, and fill it.
3. Gingivitis
Swollen, red, or bleeding gums are clear signs of gingivitis that make your teeth and gums more sensitive, especially when they come in contact with a toothbrush. Timely treatment is essential to prevent it from progressing.
4. Receding Gums
Gum tissues protect the roots of your tooth that lack the enamel covering found on the crown of your teeth. When gums recede, they expose your roots, and the nerves inside become extremely sensitive.
5. Poor Oral Health
An inadequate oral hygiene regimen is the leading reason for plaque buildup, resulting in tooth sensitivity.
6. Medications
Some medications can make your mouth dry, which results in increased tooth sensitivity. A dry mouth exposes teeth to bacteria and sugars. If you are on such medications, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, brushing daily, and limiting sugar intake.
7. Tooth-Whitening Treatments
Tooth whitening opens up tiny pores in your tooth enamel, making them more sensitive, especially when exposed to cold or sweet foods; that’s why they hurt. If you experience sensitivity during whitening, ask your dentist for an alternative with mild concentrations or different types of whitening gel.
8. Cracked Teeth
A crack in a tooth may serve as an entry point for bacteria to enter. So, when exposed to sweet foods, the sugar reaches your nerves, reacts with bacteria, and sends zaps of pain. Treatment for cracked teeth may be a dental crown or bonding to repair the tooth and alleviate sensitivity.
9. Sinus Infections
Surprisingly, sinus infections can make your teeth hurt when eating sweets. Sinus pressure can affect the nerves in your upper teeth, causing them to become more sensitive. Treating the infection itself is the most effective way to address this issue.
Closing Note
You must keep in mind that tooth sensitivity to sweets with no cavity can have various underlying causes and treatments accordingly. If you wish to learn more about this, contact our experts at Cinco Ranch Family Dentistry in our dental clinic at 22167 Westheimer Pkwy Unit 110, Katy, TX. 77450. Connect via call at (281) 407-5442.