How to Manage Tooth Sensitivity

Sensitive teeth can cause a lot of discomfort. You may experience a sharp or sudden pain when you drink or eat something cold, hot, sour, or sweet. Even a simple breath of cold air can trigger the nerve pain that extends deep into your teeth. Teeth sensitivity occurs when your gums recede and expose the dentin beneath their surface; this vulnerable layer of tissue contains your teeth’s roots, which have thousands of small tubes leading to the inner nerve center of each tooth called the pulp. When these channels are opened, temperature changes and sweet or sour flavors trigger intense pain.
Causes of Sensitive Teeth

• Normal wear and tear
• Long-term use of acidic mouthwash
• Acidic foods and beverages
• Broken or chipped teeth
• Brushing too hard
• Periodontal disease
• Teeth grinding at night
• Tooth decay at the gum line
• Recent dental procedures
• Teeth-whitening products
• Aging
• Plaque buildup

Dental Care for Teeth Sensitivity
Knowing what to do with sensitive teeth can help relieve the discomfort. The following dental care tips can help you manage your symptoms.

• Brush gently twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Brush gently around your gums.
• Floss every day.
• Avoid acidic foods and drinks.
• Use a mouth guard to control teeth grinding.
• Try a toothpaste made to treat tooth sensitivity. Ask your dentist for product recommendations.
• See your dentist in Detroitat least twice a year.

Your Dentist Can Help
If conservative at-home efforts don’t ease your symptoms, your dentist can advise what to do with sensitive teeth. Effective in-office treatments include varnishes and dentin sealers to protect exposed tooth roots and white fillings or dental bonding applied over the problem areas.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in Detroit, call Gentle Dental of Michigan today at or make an appointment.