Why Does Sugar Cause Tooth Pain? –

Why Does Sugar Cause Tooth Pain?
It’s no secret that sugar isn’t good for your teeth. Excess sugar consumption can cause a variety of problems due to the fact that sugar fuels bacteria growth, contributing directly to gum disease, cavities, and other forms of tooth decay. Sugar can also have some other effects on teeth: like heat and cold, sugary foods can contribute to tooth pain for those with sensitive teeth. But why is that? It’s important to understand how it works as it helps illustrate some of the effects sugar has, so let’s take a look.
Causes of Sensitive Teeth
Sensitive teeth are a fairly common problem, unfortunately. Generally speaking, sensitivity is the result of damage to the tooth. While this can be a crack or a chip, it’s most often caused when the hard enamel outer layer of the tooth wears down. As it grows thinner, the more sensitive inner portions of the tooth are more directly exposed to heat, cold, and other outside stimuli. This can lead to pain. The pain may come and go or may be persistent.
So what causes enamel to thin? Generally, a diet combined with poor brushing and flossing habits is to blame. Excess sugar in the diet can cause bacterial growth which in turn leads to tooth decay and the wearing away of enamel. This can cause cavities, but it can also lead to sensitive teeth. Consuming too many acidic foods and drinks–sodas and citrus juices are prime culprits–can have the same effect as the acids work directly to erode enamel.
Enamel erosion can lead to tooth damage or even tooth loss, so it’s important to understand the causes and take preventative measures.
What Triggers Tooth Pain from Sensitive Teeth?
So now that we know a bit about what causes sensitive teeth, let’s look at what triggers pain in teeth prone to sensitivity. A variety of things can trigger pain in sensitive teeth. Heat and cold are common culprits, particularly noticeable when hot or cold beverages are being consumed. Likewise acidic foods–often the causes of worn enamel–can cause a painful sensation when consumed by those with sensitive teeth. And likewise, sugary or sweet food can cause tooth pain if you’re already prone to sensitive teeth. The thinner enamel can’t keep out the external sensations caused by these foods, and the end result is a pain for the nerves of the tooth.
Preventing Sensitive Teeth
So how can we prevent sensitive teeth? Well, the most important thing is to protect and preserve the enamel of the tooth. This is accomplished in a variety of ways, chiefly via a healthy diet and a regular brushing and flossing routine. Combined with visits to the dentist’s office for an exam and cleaning, this takes care of most oral health needs.
Avoiding sugary and acidic foods is a must. While occasionally indulging isn’t going to hurt anything, please keep it to a minimum and afterward rinse your mouth with water to help remove excess sugars and acids. Likewise, during athletic activity, it’s best to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and gums. These are available at most athletic supply stores.
Your teeth and gums should provide a lifetime of service, without pain. By maintaining your oral health, you can avoid the issues that lead to sensitive teeth or even worse problems. At Burgiss DDS, we’re here to help keep your teeth healthy for years to come. Make an appointment today and we’ll talk about your oral health needs and how we can best serve you.
What Clients Are Saying About Tim Burgiss D.D.S.
“I couldn’t begin to remember how many dentists there were due to education, moves, etc. I do know that most of them stated that my mouth was a challenge. When I got Dr. Burgiss to be my dentist, he knew ahead of time that there was lots to be done in my mouth, and he did it. No one has ever numbed my gums as efficiently as he does. He has changed my looks and bite considerably for the better. To make things even better, the staff in his office is outstanding. They are cheerful and competent people who are fun to be around. To conclude my remarks, I may have to drive a little to get to his office but it is worth every mile.”
- B.E.
“When our family goes to see Dr. Burgiss it’s not like going to see “the dentist” it’s like a continuation of our family. When you walk in the door right away there is a friendly face with a caring smile to welcome you. Our family trusts Dr. Burgiss and his staff. We know that his work is always going to be the best quality because unlike other dentists that we have been to, there is not an attitude of “let’s get it done.” Instead, Dr. Burgiss has the attitude of “let’s get it right!” Our family constantly recommends Dr. Burgiss because we want other people to know that we found a dentist who is so good, dedicated, diligent, and caring, that we actually look forward to going to the dentist.”
- M. S. & J.
“You and Your staff are amazing. When I walk in the door, it is like going into another world. The office bubbles with enthusiasm for me and the incredibly warm welcome is always present. The place pulsates with care and love for me. Always I am greeted with the most important person in the world. The staff expresses interest in my life and celebrates with me any good little thing going in my favor. All of you are like cheerleaders in my life. The music you have filtered through the office is always a reminder of who and what truly matters in this life. With all of this surrounding me during a treatment, how could I ever dread coming to a “dentist’s office”. You offer a “time out” from the ordinary and restoration in me far beyond my dental health”
- S.B.
“Dr. Burgiss has been my dentist for the past ten years and he and his staff have seen me through many procedures from cleanings to replacement of old restorations and even TMJ. Without exception, every visit has been a pleasant experience. I observed Dr. Burgiss’ office for a year as their UPS delivery person before becoming his patient. During this time, I marveled at the harmonious atmosphere there. Now, many years later, after many dental procedures, I still marvel at the friendly and professional way I am treated on each and every visit. Never, not even once, have I wished for anything different from the results I received.”