Sensitive Teeth? Here’s What You Need to Know (and How to Feel Better Fast)
Do cold drinks make your teeth sting? Does hot coffee make you flinch? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to suffer. At Artistic Dentistry in Houston, we help patients get relief from tooth sensitivity with personalized, compassionate care.
Let’s discuss why your teeth might be hurting and what you can do to protect your smile.
What Is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is a common dental condition affecting millions of people annually. It’s often a warning sign that something deeper is happening with your teeth or gums.
Common triggers include:
- Cold or hot drinks and foods
- Sweet or acidic foods
- Cold air
- Even brushing or flossing in certain areas
Whether it’s a mild twinge or sharp pain, sensitive teeth can frustrate daily life. But the good news is that they are usually treatable.
What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
1. Enamel Loss at the Gum Line
Brushing too hard, using a hard-bristled toothbrush, clenching your jaw, or grinding your teeth can wear away the enamel near your gums. Once enamel wears off, it exposes the dentin—a porous layer filled with tiny nerve pathways.
These nerve signals cause sudden pain when you bite into something cold or hot.
Consider switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush and asking us about a night guard if you grind your teeth.
See also: Custom Night Guards
2. Cavities and Tooth Decay
Even a tiny untreated cavity can cause significant sensitivity issues. Once decay reaches the dentin layer—or worse, the pulp—it can create constant pain.
Don’t wait. A composite filling or a root canal might be needed to stop the discomfort and save your tooth.
3. Cracked or Damaged Teeth
A hairline fracture or worn-down filling can let bacteria and food debris into your tooth. This can irritate the nerve and create sharp, unpredictable pain.
4. Gum Disease and Receding Gums
Periodontal disease can cause your gums to pull away from the teeth, exposing the root surface. Unlike enamel, roots are protected by a thin cementum layer, which wears away quickly—leading to intense sensitivity and decay risk.
Learn more about Scaling and Root Planing to treat gum disease early.
5. Skipped Dental Checkups
If plaque hardens into tartar, it can trigger gum recession and tooth pain. Regular cleanings at Artistic Dentistry can help stop that cycle before it starts.
How We Treat Sensitive Teeth
The proper treatment depends on the cause. During your visit, we’ll start with a gentle but thorough exam and build a plan for you.
Common treatments include:
- Desensitizing toothpaste (prescription or over-the-counter)
- Fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel
- Night guards for teeth-grinding
- Bonding, crowns, or gum grafts for advanced damage
- Root canals if the nerve is exposed or infected
We believe in minimally invasive, patient-first care—so you can trust we’ll only recommend what’s truly necessary to protect your health.
How to Prevent Future Sensitivity
Keeping your teeth healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few simple steps to reduce your risk:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Brush gently in circular motions
- Floss daily to prevent gum issues
- Avoid acidic drinks and sugary snacks
- Get regular cleanings and exams
Your Smile Deserves to Be Comfortable
If you’re avoiding your favorite foods or drinks because of pain, it’s time to take action. We’re here to listen, help you feel better fast, and keep your smile strong for life.
Schedule an appointment today at Artistic Dentistry in Houston. Let’s take the pain out of your bite—together.
