Have you ever taken a sip of hot coffee or eaten a spoonful of ice cream and felt a sharp pain in your teeth? If so, you probably suffer from sensitivity. There are many reasons why a tooth may be sensitive. Some teeth become sensitive to temperature changes when they are decaying or have a large cavity. Others are sensitive as a result of cracks or chips in the enamel. Some people just naturally have sensitive teeth, even though they are in good oral health.

There are some things that you can do to try and reduce the natural sensitivity of your teeth in the future.

1. Use the Right Brushing Technique

A lot of people do not brush their teeth correctly. Improper brushing technique could cause you to wear away some of the enamel protecting your teeth against hot and cold foods. The thinner your enamel becomes, the more sensitive your teeth can be. You should brush gently to avoid damaging enamel and wearing away the gums to expose sensitive areas of each tooth. Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush to help you avoid damage caused by brushing too hard.

2. Watch What You Eat

The foods and drinks that you consume could be contributing to the sensitivity of your teeth. If you want to help prevent additional sensitivity from affecting your ability to enjoy snacks and meals, try limiting the amount of acidic food you consume. Fruit juices, sour candies, diet sodas, and some energy drinks have a high level of acidity. Consuming these beverages can cause the enamel on your teeth to erode. Erosion of the enamel can increase sensitivity, so protect your enamel by eliminating acidic foods and drinks from your diet.

3. Switch Out Your Toothpaste

The right toothpaste can be a valuable tool in the fight against sensitivity. You want to avoid whitening toothpastes, as these can be more abrasive than other toothpaste varieties. Avoid toothpastes that have microbeads as well, since these beads can accelerate enamel erosion. Switch to a toothpaste that is designed specifically for sensitive teeth to reduce any temperature-related pain you might feel in the future.

Tooth sensitivity is something that can reduce the pleasure you find in eating or drinking. Take action to help ensure that your teeth don't become any more sensitive by protecting your enamel against damage. Your dental services can help recommend more specific action that will target your unique sensitivity.

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