How to Care for Sensitive Teeth

If you feel a sharp twinge when sipping hot coffee or eating ice cream, you’re not alone. At our Beaverton dental office, we’ve worked with countless patients who want to turn their sensitive smiles into comfortable ones. To help you do the same, we’ll break down the main causes of the sensitivity, as well as highlight deliberate steps you can take at home to protect your teeth and ease any discomfort.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Picture this—your teeth are like tiny little castles, and the enamel is their protective outer wall. When that wall is weakened or compromised, the softer layer underneath (called dentin) gets exposed. The dentin contains tiny tubules that lead straight to the nerves. That’s why things like cold, hot, sweet or acidic foods can quickly trigger pain. Common causes of sensitivity include:

• Brushing Too Hard: Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or putting too much pressure can wear down enamel.
• Teeth Grinding: Grinding or clenching your teeth (often while you sleep) can erode enamel and expose sensitive areas.
• Gum Recession: When gums pull back, they expose the roots of your teeth, which don’t have the same protective enamel.
• Tooth Decay or Damage: Cavities, cracked teeth or old fillings can all contribute to sensitivity.
• Acidic Foods and Drinks: Over time, a diet high in acidic foods like citrus or soda can erode enamel.

Easy Steps You Can Take to Care for Sensitive Teeth

Now that we know the main culprits, it’s time to take action. Luckily, there are a lot of at-home options to help you manage sensitive teeth.
Switch to a sensitivity toothpaste. Not all toothpaste is created equal. A sensitivity toothpaste, like Sensodyne or Pronamel, is specially formulated to block the nerves in your teeth from feeling pain. It might take a few weeks of consistent use to work—so be patient!
Soft and gentle wins the race. When brushing, be kind to your teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions to avoid further wear on your enamel or gum recession. Hard brushing might feel more thorough but trust us—it’s not worth the pain.
Avoid trigger foods. Take note of which foods or drinks trigger sensitivity for you, whether it’s soda or an orange. While it’s not always practical to avoid them entirely, cutting back can reduce discomfort.
Address teeth grinding. If you’re grinding your teeth—whether from stress or while sleeping—talk to us about a custom mouth guard. It can minimize enamel damage and give your teeth a well-deserved break.
Routine dental checkups are essential. Regular visits allow for early detection of tooth or gum issues that might contribute to your sensitivity. Prevention is always easier than treatment!

When to Seek Help

If you’re doing all the right things and still feeling pain, don’t tough it out – reach out! Our team at Beaverton Dental Center can help pinpoint the root cause and recommend treatments that’ll bring you lasting relief.

Your Path to Comfort

Sensitive teeth can seem overwhelming, but with these simple steps and intentional care, it’s manageable. The key is to be consistent, gentle and proactive—your teeth will thank you for it. Ready to take care of your sensitive teeth? Click here to schedule an appointment.