Why Are My Teeth Sensitive To Sugar?

We are all aware that excessive sugar consumption is unhealthy. It can lead to weight gain, type 2 diabetes, and cavities. However, it’s not always easy to avoid sugar in your diet. Tooth sensitivity to sugar is a common problem among many people who love sweets, and its effects can be more pronounced if you eat many sugary foods.

If you frequently experience tooth sensitivity to sugar, it may be worth getting in touch with your dentist, as this could be a sign of an underlying problem. In some cases, red flags should increase if the sensitivity only occurs when you eat certain foods.

There are numerous reasons you may have sensitive teeth, and each suggests something different about your oral health. Here we will look at some of the most common reasons you might have sensitive teeth and what actions must be taken if this occurs regularly.

What is Sugar Sensitivity?

Sugar sensitivity is a common dental issue where the teeth experience increased sensitivity when exposed to certain sugars. It can affect people in different ways: some may find that all sugary foods cause sensitivity, whereas others may experience sensitivity to certain kinds of foods only. 

To make matters more complicated, the severity of the sensitivity may vary depending on the person. Some people may only experience a little discomfort, whereas others can barely eat anything sweet without experiencing much pain.

The severity of sugar sensitivity also varies depending on the frequency of sugar intake. If you consume sugar frequently, you will most likely be more sensitive than someone who consumes sugar infrequently. 

Sugar Can Cause Irritation And Sensitivity

Sugar is dissolved in water and sits on the surface of the teeth. Sugar may cause irritation and sensitivity by demineralizing the surface of the teeth, reducing their natural ability to defend against bacterial acids. The acids from plaque buildup can irritate the nerves inside the teeth, causing pain.

Eating sugary foods and liquids frequently can cause a reduction in the protection of the teeth. When it comes to cavities, frequent intake of sugary foods can lead to acid-producing bacteria that cause tooth decay, cavities, and tooth sensitivity.

In extreme cases, sugary foods can cause bacteria to form a biofilm on your teeth, which can be extremely difficult to remove. 

Poor Oral Care Habits May Be To Blame

If you have sensitive teeth, you need to consider what you’ve been doing in terms of oral hygiene. Bad habits such as brushing too hard or for too long, not flossing regularly, and not visiting the dentist when necessary can all be to blame.

If you have an existing problem, such as a cavity, it can also cause tooth sensitivity. Brushing too hard can irritate and damage the gums leading to tooth discomfort.

Flossing is essential for oral hygiene and can help you manage your sensitivity. If you don’t floss, plaque and tartar can build up between your teeth.

Brushing and flossing are essential, but more is needed. It would be best to visit your dentist regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy. 

Other Factors of Tooth Sensitivity

You May Have A Cavity Or Tooth Decay

Tooth decay occurs when certain bacteria in the mouth break down food and create acids as a by-product. These acids can erode tooth enamel, the hard outer protective coating on your teeth. If this occurs frequently, it can lead to a cavity.

A cavity is a hole in the tooth that goes down to the tooth’s root. Once this hole is big enough, it can lead to infection in the surrounding gum tissue, toothache, and tooth loss. Tooth decay can be difficult to detect, so it’s a good idea to visit your dentist regularly for a professional cleaning and examination.

Although tooth sensitivity is usually caused by food, you should also see a dentist if you notice any tooth sensitivity in your mouth. Your dentist may be able to find and treat any cavities or tooth decay that may be causing your teeth to be sensitive.

Your Teeth May Be Bent Or Crooked

Some types of teeth are more sensitive than others, which may be due to their shape. If your teeth are bent or crooked, they may be more susceptible to damage. Braces can also cause teeth to become sensitive, especially at the beginning of treatment.

If your teeth are bent a certain way, they can trap more food particles and bacteria than properly aligned teeth. This can lead to more frequent brushing, flossing, and dentist trips.

If you have teeth that are more sensitive than usual, it is recommended that you use a soft toothbrush and better toothpaste.

Your Gum Tissue May Be Inflamed

You may have a gum disease such as gingivitis or periodontal disease, which can cause sensitivity in your teeth. Gum disease is a bacterial infection of your gums, which can lead to inflammation and tooth sensitivity.

Bacteria can spread from your gums to the roots of your teeth, and if left untreated, it can cause tooth loss. Gum disease can be challenging to detect and often shows no signs of pain or discomfort.

However, if you regularly experience pain while brushing or flossing, especially if you notice it occurring in one specific tooth, you should see your dentist. If your dentist diagnoses gum disease, they can treat it with antibiotics and tooth scaling.

Treatment for Sugar Sensitivity

If you think you have teeth that are more sensitive than usual, there are a few things you can do about it. It would be best to visit your dentist regularly for cleaning and examinations to ensure there isn’t something else that requires more severe treatment.

When you brush your teeth, you should use a soft toothbrush and better toothpaste. It’s also a good idea to brush gently to not further damage the enamel on your teeth. If you have gum disease, you should brush and floss regularly to avoid worsening the condition.

Limit your sugary foods consumption as much as possible to reduce your risk of tooth decay and cavities. It’s also a good idea to get a good night’s sleep and eat a balanced diet to keep your teeth strong and healthy. 

Visit Your Dentist At Shabani Dental So You Can Enjoy Your Treats

What to eat and when to eat it can be a touchy subject for some people, but if you want to enjoy your favorite candies, cakes, or other treats, you should see Dr. Elena Shabani at Shabani Dental.

When you visit Shabani Dental, you can get professional advice about what food and beverages are safe to consume. This can help prevent dental problems by keeping your teeth clean and healthy.

Shabani Dental Clinic offers several ways to ensure that your teeth always stay in good shape. Receive regular check-ups and cleanings to know what kind of care your teeth require to stay healthy and beautiful.

And if you feel that any tooth damage has occurred, please contact us immediately so we can provide the care your teeth need to start healing as soon as possible.

Our clinic is at 2535 Foothill Blvd., Suite 203, La Crescenta, CA 91214. If you would like more details, please click here.