Hot and cold: What to do when you have sensitive teeth

If a taste of ice cream or a sip of coffee registers tooth pain, you may have sensitive teeth. This condition is common — at least 45 million adults in the United States suffer at some time from sensitive teeth — and it is treatable.

What is the condition of "sensitive teeth"

When the tooth's hard enamel wears down or gums recede, tiny microscopic tubes located in the next layer of tissue are exposed. Tooth sensitivity is caused by the stimulation of cells within these tubes, causing a short, sharp pain when the area is exposed to hot or cold temperatures, through food, beverages — even by breathing the air. Aching often follows.

Another cause of tooth sensitivity is cracks in the tooth's enamel surface. Extreme temperature changes cause teeth to expand and contract. Over time, microscopic cracks may develop, allowing the hot or cold sensation to seep through to the nerves beneath.

What you can do

Change your brand of toothpaste. Some toothpastes increase tooth sensitivity, including whitening toothpastes that lighten or remove stains from enamel, and tartar-control toothpastes containing sodium pyrophosphate. There are toothpastes specially made for people with sensitive teeth. Be aware that these products typically must be used on a regular basis for at least a month before you notice any therapeutic benefits. (It might help to massage the special toothpaste onto your gums with your finger after brushing.)

Take it easy on your teeth. Avoid using hard-bristled toothbrushes and brushing your teeth too vigorously, which can wear down the tooth's root surface and expose sensitive spots. Take a good look at your toothbrush. If the bristles are pointing in multiple directions, you're putting too much pressure on your teeth.

Skip the marinara sauce. Some foods or drinks can aggravate sensitive teeth. Avoid or limit acidic items (for example, food or drink with a high concentration of tomatoes, oranges or lemons) and diet soft drinks.

When to see a dentist

If a tooth is highly sensitive for more than three or four days and reacts to both hot and cold temperatures, it’s best to get an evaluation from your dentist to determine the extent of the problem. Because pain symptoms can be similar, some people might think that a tooth is sensitive when they actually have a cavity or abscess that's not yet visible. Be sure to tell the dentist when the pain started and if there is anything (such as the application of a warm compress) that reduces or eliminates the pain.

If you are diagnosed with sensitive teeth, your dentist can prescribe any of a variety of treatment regimens, including both in-office treatments (applying a desensitizing agent or a protective coating to the teeth) and take-home products for personal use. If sensitivity is severe and persistent and cannot be treated by other means, your dentist may recommend root canal treatment.

Resources

Oral Health Booklet
A collection of our top oral health tips in a printer-friendly file.