Munching on something deliciously sweet is a guilty pleasure of most people. But have you ever suffered at the hands of your favorite pastime activity? Perhaps you’ve grown up hearing how eating too many sweets can destroy your teeth. And the fact of the matter is, that’s true!
It’s not uncommon for your teeth to hurt when eating sweets, even if you have no cavities. This is usually a response your teeth give off as a warning sign. It’s important to pay attention to this because it just might be symptoms of a severe dental condition.
But why does this happen, and how can you prevent your pearly whites from falling prey to this toothache? Luckily for you, we’ve packed this blog with all the answers you’re looking for.
My Teeth Hurt When Eating Sweets, But I Have No Cavities — Is It Normal?
If you have a wicked sweet tooth, then you might be familiar with the pain of enjoying your favorite treats. Everything comes with a price, and your dental health is the highest price to pay. That is precisely why it’s completely normal for people to experience a toothache after eating sweets.
Exposing your pearly whites to constant sugary snacks and drinks can wear out the enamel. This further weakens the teeth, causing them to react aggressively every time you eat more sugar-packed snacks.
Why Are My Teeth Sensitive To Sweets All of a Sudden?
If your teeth feel sensitive all of a sudden, but it’s not because of cavities, then chances are it’s caused by one of the following:
- Enamel Erosion
Eating sweets weakens the surface of your teeth, known as enamel. Once this layer fades, it gives way to cavities and tooth decay. - Facial Injury
Sometimes, the sensitivity you feel has nothing to do with sweets and everything to do with an accidental injury. - Excessive Use of Teeth Whitening Products
Whitening teeth is good, but using drugstore products over and over again will help erode your enamel. They contain high levels of bleaching agents that are quite harmful to your pearly whites. A professional teeth whitening treatment is far less risky. - Gum Disease
Besides just affecting your gums, gum disease also attacks your teeth. It can make your teeth extremely sensitive and vulnerable to whatever you eat. - Gum Recession
When your gums pull away from the tooth, it exposes the hidden surface near the roots. Thus, acid and bacteria attack this vulnerable area when you eat sweets, leading to pain and sensitivity.
What Sweets Should I Avoid Eating?
Technically, you should avoid all kinds of sugary foods and drinks, especially if your toothache gets bad. However, mentioned below are some of the treats you need to stay away from, no matter what. Otherwise, your pearly whites will continue to weaken and get extremely sensitive.
- Hard CandyCough Drops
- Gummy Candies
- Taffy or anything too Chewy
- Orange Juice
- Fizzy Drinks
How to Prevent Teeth From Hurting When Eating Sweets
It’s essential to control tooth sensitivity the moment you first feel its effects. This will help your teeth maintain their strength and vigor. Mentioned below are some steps you can take if your teeth hurt from eating sweets but you have no cavities.
- Avoid sugar altogether or minimize your daily intake.
- Only use an alcohol-free mouthwash.
- Make sure to floss your teeth and gums every day.
- Brush your teeth every time after eating foods high in starch, acid, or sugar.
- Use fluoride toothpaste with a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush your teeth daily.
- Opt for sugar-free chewing gum
- Consider quitting habits like smoking and drinking alcohol.
- Visit your dentist every six months for a dental checkup and cleaning.
What’s The Takeaway?
If your teeth hurt when eating sweets, but you have no cavities, it could be a warning sign. Pay attention to what you eat and reduce your sugar intake. Don’t suck or chew on anything sweet, like candies, taffy, bubblegums, etc.
For more information, contact Smile Time Dental at (281) 245-0711. You can also find us at our dental office at 10185 Westview Dr, Houston, TX 77043. We’re located near M&I Beauty Salon.