Are Your Teeth Temperamental?
Dealing With Sensitive Smiles
Are you overly sensitive? Relax, it has nothing to do with crying during life insurance commercials. Millions of adults struggle with hypersensitive teeth, which means they are sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, very sugary or acidic foods and drinks and vigorous toothbrushing. This kind of sensitivity is often called “dentin hypersensitivity.”
Dentin is the tissue that makes up the core of each tooth. Above the gumline, dentin is protected with a coating of enamel. Unfortunately, as enamel is worn away or gum recession happens, dentin becomes exposed and receptive to sensations that cause painful nerve responses.
So, what causes sensitive teeth? A number of things may be to blame. Over-zealous brushing with a firm bristled tooth brush or abrasive toothpaste can lead to dentin hypersensitivity. Diet may also play a role, as frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks can chemically dissolve tooth enamel. Finally, abnormal wear on tooth surfaces from chronic clenching or grinding of teeth, nail biting and chewing on hard objects can lead to sensitive teeth. To avoid the problem, brush and floss daily to maintain healthy gums and protect dentin from exposure. Avoid vigorous brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush.
Desensitizing toothpaste used in conjunction with a soft-bristled toothbrush can help. Toothpaste designed for those with sensitive teeth can reduce the pain associated with the condition after only a few days of use. Any toothpaste at the grocery store that says “for sensitive teeth” will help. Furthermore, we carry a prescription toothpaste that has higher levels of fluoride and potassium nitrate (the main desensitizing ingredient).
Usually, tooth desensitizing toothpaste will eliminate sensitive teeth. If you are still having issues call our office at 713-941-8261 today. Or visit us at 3421 Burke Rd Ste A, Pasadena, Texas 77504.
Why Do My Teeth Hurt with Hot or Cold? Understanding Temperature Sensitivity and How to Fix It
Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages is one of the most common complaints in dentistry. Whether it’s that sharp zing from a cold drink or a lingering ache from a warm meal, temperature sensitivity can disrupt your day and make eating uncomfortable. Fortunately, in most cases, this type of sensitivity is treatable and often easily managed at home with the right toothpaste.
Common Causes of Temperature Sensitivity
Teeth become sensitive when the protective layers—enamel on the crown and cementum along the root—become worn or compromised, exposing the inner layer called dentin. Dentin contains tiny microscopic tubules that lead directly to the nerve. When hot or cold temperatures reach these tubules, you feel pain.
Here are the most common causes:
1. Gum Recession
As gums pull away from the tooth, the root surface becomes exposed. Unlike enamel, the root has no protection and is very sensitive.
2. Enamel Erosion
Acidic foods, sodas, aggressive brushing, and grinding can wear away enamel, exposing the sensitive dentin underneath.
3. Tooth Decay or Cracks
Cavities and small cracks allow temperature changes to reach the nerve more easily.
4. Recent Dental Work
Fillings, crowns, and whitening can temporarily irritate the tooth and cause short-term sensitivity.
How Sensitivity Toothpaste Helps
For most people, mild to moderate temperature sensitivity can be significantly reduced—or even eliminated—using over-the-counter sensitivity toothpaste. These toothpastes work in one of two ways:
1. Blocking the Tubules
Ingredients like stannous fluoride or arginine seal the tiny microscopic openings in dentin, preventing temperature from reaching the nerve.
2. Calming the Nerve
Potassium nitrate helps reduce nerve excitability, making the tooth less reactive to hot or cold sensations.
With consistent daily use, most patients notice improvement within 2–4 weeks. Brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush also helps protect the enamel and the gums.
When to See the Dentist
If sensitivity persists despite using sensitivity toothpaste, gets worse, or is accompanied by swelling or pain, it’s important to schedule a dental exam with Dr. Nugent. Sometimes sensitivity can be a sign of decay, a cracked tooth, infection, or gum disease that requires professional treatment.