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Causes of Sensitivity to Sweets

Posted on 2/15/2019 by Dr. Elizabeth Vivona

If you eat a lot of candy and treats, you may wonder if experiencing sensitivity is just part of your dental lifestyle now, or if something can be done to avoid it. What are the causes of sensitivity to sweets?

The Candy Itself
It may come as a surprise, but the biggest contributor to your sensitivity to sweets are the sweets themselves. Over time, sugary snacks and drinks provide fuel to the harmful bacteria inside of your mouth, allowing them to thrive and grow unchecked, eating away at your teeth. Even worse, the waste product of those bacteria breaking down sugars is acid, which then further contributes to enamel erosion, allowing infection to spread further, in turn causing your teeth to become even more sensitive.

Crunch-a-Muncha
Another reason why you might become sensitive to candy (that again ties into the tasty treat itself) is texture. If the sweet is brittle, hard, gooey, sour, or any variation therein, it can damage and wear down your teeth with every bite, slowly increasing your sensitivity and reducing your protection against those aforementioned sugar-rush diseases.

With the holiday season right around the corner, you may find yourself unable to resist all of the amazing sweets available. When moderation fails, at least try to rinse your mouth out with water after every treat to clear away the sticky sugars, acids, and other damaging agents you've introduced. Try to avoid the crackly and crispy snacks, and reach for healthier and safer treats, like raisins and other dehydrated fruits.

You shouldn't have to experience pain or sensitivity after eating candy, provided you follow routine dental care and take a few extra steps to keep your mouth clean after each sweet. If you are in the throes of a toothache or any other oral issue, please give us a call to set up an appointment immediately!

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