All About Tooth Sensitivity

Having sensitive teeth can be incredibly uncomfortable and painful, especially while eating and drinking hot or cold treats. At our Kennesaw dental office, we understand how tooth sensitivity can keep you from enjoying your favorite foods and beverages, and we don’t want anyone to experience the pain and burden of it. We’re here to help.

What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

There are several possible causes of tooth sensitivity. Most often, the reasons behind sensitive teeth is due to enamel erosion. When the enamel diminishes, the dentin, or middle part of a tooth’s anatomy, is exposed and the result is painful sensitivity. Some common culprits of enamel erosion include:

• Brushing too hard
• Tooth grinding (bruxism)
• Acidic Food

Gum recession can also contribute to increased sensitivity. When gums recede, the tooth roots and the multitude of nerves inside the roots, become exposed and leads to pain.

Signs & Symptoms

Signs of having sensitive teeth are pretty straightforward. Most commonly, those with tooth sensitivity experience sharp, shooting pain with:  

• Hot or cold food and beverages
• Breathing in cold air
• Eating sweet or acidic foods

What You Can Do About Sensitive Teeth

What’s causing the sensitivity in the first place would determine the most appropriate solution, but here a few tips you can try to reduce tooth sensitivity:

• Ease up on the highly acidic foods and drinks like citrus fruit, wine, and tomato sauce
• Use a toothbrush with soft bristles
• Brush your teeth using small, gently circles
• Consider a custom bruxism mouthguard to protect your teeth against grinding
• Maintain regular visits with your dentist in Kennesaw

If you’re tired of your sensitive teeth keeping you from enjoying your favorite foods, or you think there may be a more serious problem, we welcome you to call our dental office in Kennesaw. We’re here to help our patients and neighbors have healthy, comfortable smiles.

About The Author

Dr. Bruce Hester

Growing up, Dr. Bruce Hester always knew he wanted to pursue a dental career. After graduating at the top of his class, he practiced alongside his father at their own dental office, Hester Dental. He has continued his dad's legacy of professionalism and caring after his dad's retirement. Dr. Hester is certified in the administration of Botox and dermal filler therapies. A member of several dental associations, he has been recognized by Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the National Dental Honor Society.

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