Can Diet and Nutritional Deficiency Lead to Teeth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity and toothache have become increasingly common recently, with their prevalence rising as we age. Tooth decay is the most significant factor, which has now become one of the most widespread diseases globally.

This can be attributed to changes in our dietary habits, particularly the consumption of sugary processed foods, emphasizing the importance of nutrition and diet in maintaining optimal dental health.

Besides tooth decay, other conditions can also be involved, such as gum disease, dental wear, and bruxism.

Find out in this article how diet and nutritional deficiencies can affect our oral health and lead to sensitivities.

How does teeth sensitivity occur?

Our teeth are composed of two hard layers: The outermost layer known as enamel, and the dentin, which lies underneath. Sensitivity occurs when the enamel breaks down, exposing the dentin to the external oral environment.



This is because, unlike enamel, dentin contains many tiny canals called dentinal tubules. They run through the thickness of the dentin and reach the tooth nerves.

When the exposed dentin receives stimulation from cold or hot food, it transmits it to the tooth's nerves. This causes sensitivity and pain. Factors that can break down the tooth's protective layers and expose the dentin include:

• Tooth Decay: Some bacteria in our mouth can turn the sugar in our food into acid. When there is too much acidity, the enamel erodes, exposing the underlying dentin. Over time, this can lead to small holes called cavities. You may then start experiencing sensitivities and toothache.


• Gum Disease: When harmful bacteria take over your mouth, they irritate your gums and cause inflammation.
  In advanced stages, the gums gradually pull away from your teeth, exposing the roots. As the roots are not protected by tooth enamel, they are more sensitive. As a result, receding gums go hand in hand with sensitivity issues, particularly to cold, hot or sweet foods, and to pressure.


• Dental wear: Although enamel is the hardest tissue in our body when it undergoes continuous irritation, it breaks down, making the tooth more vulnerable. This can result from excessive consumption of acidic and sugary beverages, teeth grinding, or acid reflux.

How can nutrition and diet affect your dental health?

There is a strong link between what you eat and the condition of your teeth. The more sugar you consume throughout the day, the more you feed harmful bacteria. These erode the protective layers of your teeth, increasing the risk of sensitivity.

While some nutrients are bad for your teeth, others do the opposite, helping to protect and strengthen them.

The Major Role of Saliva

After a sugary meal, the acidity in the mouth increases, leading to the loss of minerals from tooth enamel, a process called demineralization.

However, after approximately 30 minutes, acidity levels return to normal, and the teeth begin to regain the lost minerals. This natural cycle highlights the vital role of saliva.

Saliva plays a crucial part in this process by offsetting the acidity produced by bacteria and removing food particles from the tooth surfaces.

Moreover, saliva supplies essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus, which promote the remineralization and repair of enamel.

To ensure saliva can effectively remineralize your teeth and prevent sensitivity, it's essential to meet your mineral needs by consuming adequate amounts of calcium and phosphorus. Consider also getting fluoride from oral hygiene products, as it is known to add extra strength.

How can nutritional deficiencies lead to tooth sensitivity?

Although essential nutrients may not seem directly involved in tooth sensitivity, certain deficiencies can make teeth and gums more vulnerable and prone to damage. These deficiencies include:

1. Essential Minerals: Calcium and Phosphorus

Our teeth are primarily composed of minerals, including calcium and phosphorus. Eating foods rich in these minerals helps to strengthen the enamel and prevent conditions that can lead to sensitivities.

Not getting the daily needed amount of phosphorus and calcium will hinder the natural remineralization effect of saliva.

So, think about eating tooth-friendly foods rich in these minerals such as green leafy vegetables, beans, almonds, and dairy products.

2. Vitamin C:

Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is an antioxidant that prevents aging and strengthens the immune system. It helps maintain healthy gums by supporting the production of collagen, a protein that gives structure to the gum tissue. Vitamin C has also been shown to reduce the risk of gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease.

The recommended daily dose by ANSES is 90mg/day. You can get vitamin C from fruit and vegetables such as tomatoes, kiwis, strawberries and spinach.

As most sources of vitamin C are sweet and acidic, remember to take it as part of a meal with other protective foods. Also, rinse your mouth afterward to limit damage to your tooth enamel.

3. Vitamin D:

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining gum health and overall well-being. It helps modulates the inflammatory response and strengthens the bone that supports your teeth. One study showed that vitamin D deficiency led to greater tissue destruction in gum disease.

4. Essential fatty acids:

Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids are so-called because they are necessary for the body to function properly. Yet the only way to obtain them is through diet. They are typically found in fish oil and certain nuts, seeds, and plant sources.

Omega-3 is the essential fatty acid that has been extensively studied for its beneficial effects on gum health. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it helps maintain healthy gums and prevent the onset of periodontal disease.

A study of the link between omega-3s and periodontitis (advanced gum disease) found that omega-3 intake was associated with a low risk of gum disease.

Takeaway:

Sensitive teeth can be caused by several factors, including tooth decay, gum disease, worn enamel, and aging.

It's important to take good care of your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly, using fluoride toothpaste, and visiting your dentist regularly.

A balanced diet and good nutrition can also help strengthen your tooth enamel and gums to prevent sensitivity.

If you are experiencing teeth sensitivity, it's important to seek professional dental care. Early diagnosis and treatment can help relieve discomfort and prevent more serious problems in the future.