teeth pain when taking sugary fluids

Tooth pain when consuming sugary fluids can be a common issue due to how sugar interacts with your body and brain. Andrew Huberman discusses how the preference for sweet tasting foods and liquids is linked to the brain's dopamine pathway and other neural circuits. Although the clip doesn't address tooth pain specifically, it's possible that the rapid increase in sugar can lead to irritation if dental issues like cavities or enamel erosion are present, which are common reasons for sensitivity and pain when consuming sugary substances 1.

If you consistently experience tooth pain with sugary fluids, it might be beneficial to consult a dentist to rule out cavities or enamel erosion. Additionally, maintaining good dental hygiene and limiting sugar intake could help alleviate the problem.

Tooth pain associated with sugar is generally linked to cavities or tooth sensitivity. According to Andrew Huberman, cavities are caused by bacteria that consume sugar and then produce acid, which demineralizes and creates holes in the teeth, not by the sugar itself. The primary bacteria responsible is Streptococcus mutans1]. This acid production can lead to increased sensitivity and discomfort, particularly when sweets are consumed.

In addition to cavities, sugary foods can exacerbate sensitivity if the enamel is worn down, as they can access the more sensitive dentin layer underneath [2]. Maintaining good oral hygiene after consuming sugar, such as rinsing the mouth with water or using xylitol gums or mints, can help prevent the buildup of these bacteria and reduce the risk of acid formation and subsequent tooth pain [3].