Many people experience a sour sensation in their teeth when eating stimulating foods. What causes this? Experts explain that tooth sensitivity is a symptom of dentin hypersensitivity, potentially caused by exposed dentin due to lack of enamel, poorly calcified enamel development, or severe tooth wear from long-term chewing on one side. To prevent and treat dentin hypersensitivity, in addition to common oral hygiene methods like frequent brushing, there are several tips you can try.

For example, patients can chew raw walnut kernels or rub the cross-section of fresh garlic repeatedly on the sensitive areas of the teeth. Allicin in garlic has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help treat dentin hypersensitivity. Raw walnut kernels contain large amounts of tannic acid, which can coagulate proteins in the dentinal tubules and also provide desensitization.

Another simple and convenient method is to use tea, which is readily available around us. Don't discard overnight tea arbitrarily; it can be "repurposed" by chewing it in the mouth, especially on the sensitive teeth. Alternatively, fresh tea leaves can be placed directly on the sensitive areas of the teeth and chewed gently. Studies have shown that tea contains abundant fluoride and tea polyphenols. Tea polyphenols have disinfecting and sterilizing properties, not only inhibiting the growth of caries-causing bacteria but also enhancing the acid resistance of tooth enamel. With the participation of fluoride, the acid resistance is surprisingly strengthened. Additionally, the fluoride ions in tea are excellent for dental health, as they have a strong affinity with the calcium in teeth, acting like a protective layer for the teeth.

When using the method of chewing tea leaves to treat tooth sensitivity, there is no need to choose high-grade tea, as high-grade tea actually contains much less fluoride than lower-grade tea.

The above methods are remedial measures after tooth sensitivity occurs, but they are also useful for preventing dental diseases. Of course, long-term tea consumption can also contribute to dental health. Additionally, to prevent dentin hypersensitivity, it is best to chew food with both sides of the teeth to avoid excessive wear on one side, and it is advisable to eat less hard food.