Do you struggle with the symptoms of sensitive teeth? If you’ve been searching “sensitive teeth treatment near me,” a key place to start in managing tooth sensitivity is considering what foods and drinks you consume.
When an underlying condition causes increased sensitivity in the teeth, it can lead to pain and discomfort while eating or drinking. Knowing what causes sensitive teeth, which foods to avoid, and what treatment options are available can help keep your smile comfortable and pain-free.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
Many people think tooth sensitivity is linked to weakened enamel, but this is not always true. A myriad of things can cause sensitive teeth. Any of the following factors can cause increased sensitivity in your teeth[1]:
- Gum recession
- Cavities
- Brushing your teeth too hard
- Grinding your teeth
- Using a brush with hard bristles
- Consuming acidic foods too often
- Tooth decay
- Teeth whitening or bleaching
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Periodontal disease
Underlying medical concerns can also cause teeth sensitivity. Conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause sensitive teeth by pushing stomach acid upwards into the mouth. This acid can wear down the enamel and expose the tooth’s inner nerves.
If you experience sensitive teeth, it is imperative that you see your dentist to find out the cause and to get help.
Food and Drinks to Avoid with Sensitive Teeth
Living with sensitive teeth can be tricky. To avoid ongoing pain and discomfort, you should avoid certain foods and drinks. The following are some of the worst foods and beverages you can consume when you have tooth sensitivity:
Citrus Fruits
One of the main foods people with sensitive teeth should avoid is citrus fruit. These fruits are acidic foods that can irritate the enamel and cause sharp pain. Citrus fruits include oranges, grapefruit, lemons, and limes.
On top of aggravating sensitive teeth, acidic foods like oranges and grapefruit can cause tooth sensitivity in the first place. If you have strong, healthy teeth, consuming these fruits too often or drinking citrus juices regularly can lead to the development of sensitive teeth.
Candies and Pastries
Another food that you should avoid is candy. Candies, pastries, and other sweets all contain various levels of sugar and acidic compounds. Sugar and acid do not make an ideal combination for tooth sensitivity. It’s okay to enjoy sweets on special occasions, but eating these foods often can lead to continuing discomfort. They can also lead to the development of cavities, which cause further sensitivity.
Sports Drinks and Sodas
Sports drinks and sodas are products where sugar meets acid. Soft and sports drinks often contain high amounts of sugar and various chemical components that increase acidity. When you drink these often, it can seriously wear down your enamel and hurt your sensitive teeth. Similar to candy and pastries, these beverages can also cause cavities to develop.
Ice Cream, Ice Pops, and Slushies
People with sensitive teeth may already know about this significant source of pain: cold food. Ice cream, slushies, sherbert, and popsicles can all cause considerable shooting pain if you have sensitive teeth.
The freezing temperature is too intense and irritates the surface and nerves of the tooth. Ice water or icy beverages can often have the same effect. To avoid these uncomfortable symptoms, try drinking your beverages at room temperature and refrain from indulging in frozen desserts.
Other Treatments for Sensitive Teeth
Aside from eating the right foods, there are other ways you can treat sensitive teeth as well. Toothpaste specifically formulated for sensitive teeth can be beneficial, as can fluoride treatments from your dentist. Depending on the cause of your tooth sensitivity, a root canal treatment or gum graft may be necessary for long-lasting relief. Applying resin bonding can also improve certain cases.[2]
Your dentist can determine the best treatment options for you.
Sensitive Teeth Treatment Near Me
Have you been searching for “sensitive teeth treatment near me?” The right dentist can help you navigate sensitive teeth and avoid discomfort. The experienced team at Empire Dental Care offers effective treatments for tooth sensitivity and other concerns in Webster, NY. Please schedule a consultation today by calling us at 585-671-1650.
Sources:
[1] https://www.healthline.com/health/sensitive-teeth#What-causes-sensitive-teeth
