What Things to Not Eat If You Have Sensitive Teeth

According to the Colgate Professional website, tooth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, is estimated to affect half of the United States population. Tooth sensitivity is brought on when the enamel of the tooth wears down or the gums have receded. The dentin on the root of the teeth is exposed, making it painful to eat and drink certain products. Knowing what foods to avoid can help prevent painful experiences.

Acidic Foods

• According to the Academy of General Dentistry, eating acidic foods is the number one contributor to sensitive teeth. When grocery shopping, aside from looking at fat and calorie content in products, consider the food's pH levels. Foods that lower the teeth's pH cause your enamel to demineralize. Aside from sensitivity, your risk for cavities also increases. Since many foods are acidic, it will be hard to give them up completely. Eating them in moderation is best. Some high-acidic foods include tomatoes, lemons, orange juice, pickled products, yogurt, sodas and wine.

Hot Foods

• Because the enamel that protects the teeth is eroded in people with sensitive teeth, eating foods that are hot can be painful. Eating very hot foods transfers sensations to the gums and root of the teeth, expanding and contracting them, causing small cracks. Over time, severe pain is experienced and a root canal might be needed. You can still enjoy the foods you would eat hot, just let them cool off before eating them. Likewise, hot drinks such as tea and coffee can still be enjoyed, just let them cool before drinking.

Cold Foods

• Similar to hot foods, cold foods also trigger pain in sensitive teeth. The exposed nerves in your teeth trigger neurotransmitters that send a pain-message to your brain. The brain acts in the same way you would if you just touched a hot stove. It pulls away in shock and stops you from doing it again. Waiting for the cold food to reach room temperature is a solution for eating cold foods. Aside from very cold foods, teeth can also be painful when you breathe in very cold air.