Tooth Pain When Exposed to Sweets Can Signal Underlying Problems
Tooth sensitivity is often associated with cold or hot foods, but for some people, sugary foods trigger tooth pain. Tooth pain of any kind may be an indication of an oral health problem and should be examined by a dentist. Dentist Bruce J. Wilderman, DDS offers a wide range of dental services to diagnose and treat oral health issues, including tooth pain.
It’s important to see a dentist if you experience tooth pain when eating sugary foods. Tooth pain when exposed to sweets can signal underlying problems. If you live in Philadelphia, Bucks County, Doylestown, PA, or surrounding areas, and experience toothaches from sweets, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Wilderman.
Tooth Pain and Possible Dental Problems
Some people experience tooth sensitivity when eating sugary foods and drinks. It often feels like a sharp, shooting pain in the teeth. This type of tooth pain is often a sign of underlying issues that allow sugars to reach the inner nerves of the teeth.
Some of the most common underlying problems include the following dental health issues.
Enamel Loss
The teeth are protected by a hard, outer layer called enamel. Although tooth enamel is extremely hard, it can be worn down by acidic foods, plaque, and brushing too abrasively.
As enamel is worn away, the teeth may become more sensitive to sugar and more vulnerable to decay.
Dental Cavities
Dental cavities are holes in the teeth caused by the bacteria in plaque. Plaque bacteria feed on starches and sugars left on the teeth after eating. The bacteria release acids as a result of the digestion of sugar. This acid can dissolve the enamel and create cavities in the teeth.
Once a cavity forms, bacteria and sugars can enter the tooth and cause pain. If left untreated, bacteria may reach the inner nerves and blood vessels of the teeth, resulting in a root canal infection.
Receding Gums
Tooth sensitivity may also be caused by receding gums. When the gums recede, they leave the highly sensitive lower surfaces of the teeth exposed. This in turn can cause tooth pain when eating sweets.
Receding gums have several possible causes. One common cause is gum disease, but it may also be caused by brushing the teeth too hard or from orthodontic treatment.
Dental Fractures
Like dental cavities, cracks or fractures within the teeth can allow sugars to reach the inner structures of the teeth, causing pain and discomfort.
Dental fractures may be caused by an injury, grinding the teeth, clenching the teeth, or biting something hard. Whatever the cause, leaving a crack untreated can lead to further tooth pain and damage.
Seeking Treatment
Tooth pain is often a signal that something is wrong with one or more teeth. If pain occurs when eating sweets, it may mean that sugars are able to reach the inner structures of the teeth. If left untreated, serious dental damage can occur.
The first step is undergoing a dental examination to determine the source of tooth pain. Once identified, the proper treatment may be performed to restore dental health and alleviate pain.
Discover Your Treatment Options
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity and would like to speak with a dentist about the possible source of your tooth pain, please call (215) 340-1199 or schedule a consultation online with Dr. Wilderman.