Recognize the Right Way to Overcome Toothache!

In some people toothache often occurs when eating ice cream, consuming hot tea, or when brushing their teeth. These complaints are generally caused by sensitive teeth. Toothache due to sensitive teeth occurs when the underlying layer of the teeth (dentin) is exposed. This makes the roots of the teeth which have thousands of small nerves more easily exposed to various stimuli, such as hot, cold, sweet or sour food or drinks.

Causes of Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive or easily aching teeth can be caused by many things. The following are some of the causes of toothache which occur quite often:

1. The habit of brushing your teeth too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush
2. Gingivitis or pulled gums
3. Teeth with cavities, cracks, fractures, or habitual grinding of teeth
4. Side effects of certain procedures on teeth, such as teeth whitening and teeth  crown  installation
5. Long term use of mouthwash
6. Plaque buildup on teeth
7. Consumption of foods and drinks that are too sour or sweet
8. Gastric acid reflux disease (GERD)

Risk factors for sensitive teeth

Although it can happen to anyone, there are several factors that can increase a person's risk of experiencing sensitive teeth, namely:

• Smoke
• Often consume soft drinks
• Rarely clean and do not maintain healthy teeth and mouth

Sensitive Teeth Symptoms

Someone who has sensitive teeth will feel pain and aches. In addition to the sensation of pain and aches, other symptoms that can appear include:

1. Bad breath (Halitosis)
2. Changes in taste sensation in the mouth
3. Gum shrinkage
4. Redness and swelling in the gums

How to Overcome Sensitive Teeth

Going to the dentist is the first step you can take if your teeth ache. The doctor will detect the cause of toothache based on a history of complaints, symptoms experienced, and examination results.

1. Use toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth

Toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth contains certain formulas that are able to inhibit or reduce toothache or pain. However, the toothpaste needs to be used several times until complaints of toothache can be resolved.

2. Flouride treatment

Fluoride treatment can be done by applying fluoride gel to the outermost layer of the teeth to strengthen the protective layer of teeth (enamel). If the layers of the teeth strengthen, complaints of toothache can subside.

3. Teeth bonding

This procedure is carried out by attaching certain materials, usually in the form of resin, to the exposed or exposed root surface of the tooth. If Hermina's friend undergoes a teeth bonding procedure to treat cavities, the doctor generally gives local anesthesia.

4. Gum surgery

Tooth roots that have lost the gum lining can cause teeth to ache. The solution that can be done to overcome the condition is gum surgery. The doctor will take gum from another part to attach it to the missing part.

5. Root canal treatment (root canal treatment)

Root canal treatment is done by treating the core or pulp of the tooth. This method is generally used when other types of treatment are ineffective in dealing with aching teeth or the pain that Friends of Hermina is experiencing is unbearable.

 

Tips for Preventing Sensitive Teeth

In order for the teeth to be free from the feeling of pain due to sensitive teeth when consuming various types of food or drinks, Hermina's best friend must maintain healthy teeth and mouth. The following are some ways you can do to prevent aching teeth or sensitive teeth:

1. Brush your teeth regularly

Brushing your teeth 2 times a day with a soft bristle brush and toothpaste that contains flouride is the simplest way to keep your teeth clean and healthy. Avoid brushing your teeth too hard, especially around the gum line, to prevent injury to the gums. After brushing your teeth, use dental floss to clean food residue stuck between your teeth.

2. Avoid grinding your teeth

The habit of grinding your teeth over time can make your teeth brittle and sensitive. If Hermina's friend has this habit, try wearing a mouth guard, especially when sleeping.

3. Pay attention to the food and drinks consumed

Limit consumption of acidic foods and drinks, such as soda, yogurt, tomatoes and oranges, as well as foods or drinks that contain lots of sugar. Acidic or sweet foods and drinks can erode tooth enamel, exposing the dentin to the teeth.

If Hermina's friend wants to drink soda or other acidic drinks, use a straw so that the liquid doesn't get on your teeth. After that, drink water to normalize the acid levels in the mouth.

Avoid brushing your teeth immediately after consuming foods and drinks that contain acid or sugar. Wait about 30 minutes beforehand. The acid makes tooth enamel softer and easier to erode when brushed.

4. Check your teeth regularly to the dentist

Apart from brushing your teeth regularly and limiting consumption of acidic foods, Sahabat Hermina also needs to have your teeth checked by the dentist every 6 months or according to the schedule recommended by the dentist.

Routine care and maintaining dental hygiene are the main keys to preventing toothache due to sensitive teeth. If Hermina's friends still feel aching teeth even though they have done some of the tips above, immediately consult a complaint to the dentist at the specialist dental clinic at RSU Hermina Pandanaran.