The Truth About Tooth Sensitivity: Cold Drinks, Sweet Treats, and What’s Really Happening

Tooth sensitivity is common.

If you have sensitive teeth, you aren’t alone. Tooth sensitivity is a common issue for many people. It can happen when the enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth, wears down, which happens over time. Tooth sensitivity can make it hard to consume cold foods and drinks and sweet treats. Even those who follow a good oral health care routine can be plagued with sensitive teeth.

At Sensation Smiles in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, our dental practice is focused on preventive dental care to make sure our patients have dazzling smiles and healthy teeth. Read on to learn more about what causes tooth sensitivity and how you can avoid sudden pain.

Why Teeth Become Sensitive

Tooth sensitivity happens to most everyone, and it is usually because of wear and tear. Teeth become sensitive as the enamel wears down, which can happen over time naturally due to bacteria and sugars eating away at it, or by brushing teeth too hard. Sensitive teeth can also be caused by receding gums, exposing the dentin layer, which sits under the enamel. If the dentin is exposed, it is a direct route to the nerves of the tooth, which means any sort of extreme temperature, be it hot or cold, can cause tooth pain. Highly acidic or sugary foods and drinks can also cause sensitive teeth.

Everyday Triggers for Sensitive Teeth

If you have sensitive teeth, you should avoid extreme temperatures, either cold or hot. Drinks like iced water, milkshakes, hot coffee, or hot tea can cause tooth sensitivity. Foods that are very hot, like soup, or very cold, like ice cream, can also cause people to feel sensitivity in their teeth. 

For those who have sensitive teeth, they may find that foods and drinks that are high in sugar or acid may also cause issues with their teeth. Think about things like citrus juices, sugar-heavy desserts, and candy, especially the kind with sour powder on them.

If you have sensitive teeth, you may experience a variety of pain, from mild to severe, depending on what types of foods and drinks you are consuming. Some who have sensitive teeth describe their pain as a slight tingling or ache, while others experience a sharp, stabbing pain that they can sometimes feel up the side of their face and in their eyes and sinuses. Others who suffer from tooth sensitivity find that they have lingering tooth pain after they have consumed certain foods or drinks that are triggers. Keep track of what foods and drinks are causing you discomfort and try to avoid them when possible.

When Sensitivity Signals a Bigger Problem

If you find your teeth are becoming more sensitive over time, it could be a sign of another dental problem. These problems can include:

• Tooth decay
• Cavities
• Cracked teeth
• Gum disease

If you notice you are having dental pain, especially if it has come on suddenly, make sure to schedule an appointment and talk to the team at Sensational Smiles to address your dental issues before they become major dental problems.

Relief from Sensitive Teeth and Treatment Options

Once you know what is causing your sensitive teeth, your best bet is to try and avoid any food or drinks that might trigger the pain.

However, if you are looking for a more permanent solution, speak to the team at Sensational Smiles. The Sioux City team may recommend trying desensitizing toothpaste to help alleviate the pain. Fluoride treatments may be an option for some patients who need a boost to fortify their teeth. A dental sealant may also be an option for some patients. A dental sealant is used on molars to help protect them from cavities, which are another way teeth become sensitive.

Because there are so many options and so many causes of sensitive teeth, it is always best to check with your dentist to find the best solution for your teeth sensitivity.

Preventing Tooth Sensitivity

One of the easiest ways to prevent tooth sensitivity is to practice good oral hygiene habits. This includes proper brushing techniques, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride-fortified toothpaste. A proper oral health routine means brushing your teeth at least twice a day for a minimum of two minutes each time, as well as flossing at least once a day. Some dentists also recommend using a non-alcoholic mouthwash with fluoride. Regular biannual dental checkups to Sensational Smiles can also help to prevent tooth sensitivity.

If you find you are experiencing tooth sensitivity to extreme temperatures, consider using a straw to drink ice water or hot coffee because it limits direct exposure to the teeth. Sugary candies and sweet desserts, as well as acidic foods and drinks, like orange juice, should also be avoided if you have sensitive teeth.

Visit Sensational Smiles today.

If you find your tooth sensitivity is affecting your daily life, it may be time to get it checked out. Schedule an appointment at Sioux Falls’ Sensational Smiles today to start feeling better tomorrow!