Sensitivity to cold foods is fairly common. If you’re nervous to take a bite of that ice cream cone, you’re not alone—over half of all Americans suffer from tooth sensitivity. Over sensitivity to warm or cold foods is very often a side effect of dentin hypersensitivity. When the enamel on our teeth is eroded, or when our gums recess, the underlying surface (dentin) is exposed; the ability to protect the root of the tooth is undermined.
What are some of the causes of this sensitivity?
- Tooth erosion due to gastric reflux disease or bulimia.
- Gum erosion due to inadequate oral care or tobacco use.
- Worn tooth enamel from using too hard of a toothbrush and brushing too aggressively.
- Grinding your teeth.
- Enamel erosion due to diet of highly acidic foods and beverages.
What can you do about sensitive gums?
Firstly, whenever you are having oral pain or discomfort, you should see a dentist. The fine people at Valley Dental will let you know the issue and work with you to develop a solution. When you get to the dentist, there are a few things that they may find and do. If there is tooth decay present, exasperating the issue, the tooth may need a filling or even a root canal. If there is gum recession, you may need as much as a gum graft. The scale of how serious the issue may be if you have hypersensitive teeth is pretty broad, and it’s always important to seek a professional opinion.
It’s important to make sure you brush after meals, see your friendly neighborhood dentist regularly, and refrain from tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption. If you already have a slight sensitivity to warm or cold foods, there is desensitizing toothpaste etc. that you can use—just ask one of our dentists when you come in for a visit!