How to Treat Sensitive Teeth

People with tooth sensitivity might experience sharp pains in their teeth after eating hot or cold foods, or even breathing in cold air. The cause of tooth sensitivity is exposed dentin, the underlying layer of teeth. Aging, gum disease, brushing too hard and tooth whitening can all cause this sensitivity. Sometimes you will have to see a dentist about sensitive teeth, but there are things that you can do at home to treat the problem.

Things You'll Need

• toothpaste for sensitive teeth

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Instructions

• 1

  Use toothpaste that is designed for sensitive teeth. According to the American Dental Association, these toothpastes contain a compound that can help block the transmission of sensation from the surface of the tooth to the nerve. It may take several uses before the toothpaste has an effect on your tooth sensitivity.

• 2

  Brush your teeth gently with a soft toothbrush. Over brushing, or not brushing properly can cause your gums to recede and worsen tooth sensitivity.

• 3

  See a dentist if the problem persists or worsens. A dentist can use fluoride treatments to strengthen your enamel, perform a root canal on especially sensitive teeth or seal your teeth in a plastic-based agent that can protect the dentin and eliminate sensitivity.