Do you have teeth that are very sensitive to either hot or cold temperatures? This problem is becoming more common due to people consuming more acidic foods which can dissolve the protective layer of enamel on your teeth. This happens from drinking carbonated beverages regularly, eating a lot of fruit, having a cavity, or using whitening products that damage the enamel. Here is what you need to know about having sensitive teeth.

Take Preventative Measures

One way that you can prevent your teeth from becoming more sensitive is to cut back on those foods and beverages that are going to wear away the protective layer of enamel. While you may love having a soda with lunch every day or regularly eat fruit as a healthy snack, it's time to consider ways to remove them from being a prominent fixture of your diet.

Cutting back on these foods and beverages isn't going to fix the problem with sensitive teeth, but it will prevent it from getting worse over time. If you are taking other steps to try to reverse the damage that is causing teeth sensitivity, you won't be taking part in behaviors that are undoing all your hard work.

Limit The Damage

If you are having problems cutting these foods out of your diet, it's important to have something that can help balance out all of those acids, such as cheese and yogurt. They will actually help absorb the acids and prevent them from resting on your teeth.

You should also be aware that it is not the quantity of foods and beverages you are consuming that causes sensitivity, but the duration of how long you are consuming them. For example, if you drink soda, you are causing much more harm by casually sipping on soda during the day. In theory, it is much better to consume the entire drink over your lunch period, rather than slowly sip on the same amount of soda during your entire afternoon. Your saliva naturally washes over your teeth to remove those acids, and if you keep introducing acidity to your mouth, the saliva won't be able to do its job.

Use Teeth Sensitivity Toothpaste

Consider switching to a toothpaste designed to help protect sensitive teeth. It won't replace the protective layer of enamel that has worn away, but it will close up the small pore-like dentin tubules that allow your teeth to feel sensitive. The toothpaste can give you some relief during your day to help reduce sensitivity.

For more advice, visit a dental practice such as Brandywine Dental Care.