Why Does Eating Cold Food Cause Toothache?

News Desk

Islamabad: Scientists believe that sensitive teeth contain cells and signals that lower the temperature which increases tooth pain and shocks the brain.

They say the research will help develop new treatments, including toothpaste, fillings or chewing gum.

According to the report of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), this research has been published in the journal ‘Science Advances’.

In this study, researchers studied mice and humans to understand how pain is produced, taking into account what is happening in cells and nerves.

University of Erlangen–Nuremberg, Germany Research Professor Katharina Zimmerman said that when the molecule is targeted, treatment becomes possible. This target is called TRPC5 and Dr Zimmerman’s team attributed it to a specific cell type called odontoblasts.

According to the report, it resides between the soft inner pulp and the hard outer surface of the tooth which consists of dentin, followed by the enamel layer.

Compared to dentin, enamel does not feel pain. Dentin connects to the inner pulp, where the nerve cells are located. If the dentin starts to show due to gum disease or tooth decay, it is very painful and the person may even develop a fever.

Dr Katharina further stated that the amount of TRPC5 found in human teeth is very high which led us to think that something could be put in place to inhibit or block TRPC5 (such as strips or chewing gum) that may help treat toothaches and reduce tooth sensitivity.

However, a popular home remedy for tooth sensitivity that you can use is clove oil that contains a chemical called eugenol, which helps block the TRPC5 pathway.

However, scientists do not recommend self-treatment at home; if you have a toothache, they say to consult a dentist immediately.British Dental Association (BDA) Professor Damien Walmsley mentioned that home remedies can temporarily stop the pain, but it’s important to tackle the underlying problem and prevent it permanently, so regular dental check-ups are essential. Brushing is essential, as it can prevent tooth and gum problems from developing.

“This research is interesting, but we should not ignore the underlying causes behind tooth sensitivity and how people experience pain,” Dr Damien added.

Dentists can treat tooth decay, he stated and recommended using special toothpaste for sensitive teeth.

In the future, agents that block the TRPC5 pathway could be added to toothpaste to help prevent toothaches, Dr Walmsley further stated.

Tooth decay occurs when the hard outer layer of your teeth (enamel) and the layer underneath (dentin) are weakened by food acids which are produced when you eat or drink sugary foods.

These acids then attack your tooth and create holes in the tooth called cavities that can cause pain or damage to your tooth.

Consuming sweet foods or cold drinks is more likely to cause tooth decay so it is best to limit these types of foods for a certain period of time to reduce the risk.