How to Treat Sensitivity in Teeth

August 4, 2021

If you experience pain in your teeth and mouth from things such as hot or cold food and drinks or certain toothpastes and mouthwashes, you may be dealing with tooth sensitivity. Having sensitive teeth stems from having thin enamel, as without enough enamel, your tooth isn’t as protected against whatever touches it. Fortunately, there are many ways to fight against tooth sensitivity.



Choosing the Right Toothpaste

It’s important to pick a toothpaste that specifically targets sensitive teeth. The ingredients in them can help stop sensitivity pain from traveling up the nerve into the tooth. If you use mouthwash, make sure to use an alcohol-free one, as the alcohol can further irritate your sensitive teeth.


Make sure to also use soft toothbrushes specifically meant for sensitive teeth. If you brush too hard or use a brush with hard bristles, you may be doing more harm than good by breaking down your enamel.


Fluoride Treatment

A special fluoride treatment applied at the dentist’s office can help strengthen your enamel, therefore decreasing your sensitivity. You may benefit from prescription fluoride in-office or even at home, depending on what your dentist recommends.


Take Care of Your Enamel

Since enamel breaking down is usually the root of tooth sensitivity, taking steps to keep your enamel strong will prevent your tooth sensitivity from getting worse, or from happening in the first place. Acidic food and drinks such as sodas and carbonated beverages, candies, alcohol, and dairy break down your tooth enamel. Instead, try eating a fiber-rich diet that isn’t full of unhealthy acids. If you do eat something extremely acidic, it’s best to brush your teeth right after.


Avoid Excessive Teeth Whitening

If you have sensitive teeth, whitening your teeth can cause even more pain in the nerves, causing more discomfort when you eat, drink, or even breathe in very cold air. If you know teeth whitening is a trigger for you, talk to your dentist about if you should continue, and if there are better teeth whitening alternatives that won’t worsen your symptoms.


Wear a Nightguard

It’s possible that your sensitive teeth are due to teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. If you grind your teeth at night, your enamel will wear down, therefore leading your teeth to be sensitive to hot and cold food and other triggers. If this is the cause, then getting fitted for the correct size and type of nightguard can keep you from grinding, therefore keeping your tooth enamel from breaking down.


Consult with Your Dentist

There are many different causes of tooth sensitivity, from loose fillings, a receding gum line, gum disease, a cracked tooth, jaw clenching, and more. Perhaps it’s your whole mouth, or one tooth is suddenly sensitive.


Your dentist at Stephens Dentistry will be able to assess your symptoms to figure out the best course of action for you. If the steps you’re taking at home aren’t effective, consulting with an expert can give you answers and help you find the root of the problem.


For a dentist near Evanston who will help treat your tooth pain and sensitivity concerns, we recommend scheduling an appointment with Stephens Dentistry today.

June 24, 2025
Pregnancy is a time of excitement, anticipation, and transformation. As your body adapts to nurture new life, your needs evolve—including your dental care. At Stephens Dentistry, we’re passionate about supporting expectant mothers through every stage of this journey. Understanding the connection between oral health and pregnancy is not just important for your smile, but for the wellbeing of both you and your baby.  How Pregnancy Impacts Oral Health Pregnancy brings about a surge in hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, which can have a profound effect on your gums and teeth. Many women notice changes in their oral health during pregnancy, including increased sensitivity, swelling, or bleeding gums. These shifts aren't just uncomfortable—they can also signal conditions that need attention to safeguard your overall health. Pregnancy Gingivitis: What You Need to Know One of the most common dental issues during pregnancy is pregnancy gingivitis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , up to 60–75% of pregnant women develop gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. This occurs because hormonal changes heighten the body’s response to the bacteria in dental plaque. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis—a more serious gum infection that can cause tooth loss and has been linked to health risks beyond the mouth. Oral Health and Birth Outcomes The importance of oral health during pregnancy goes beyond comfort and aesthetics. Research has shown a significant link between maternal gum disease and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight. A systematic review published in the Journal of Dental Research found that women with periodontal disease may be more likely to deliver prematurely or have babies with low birth weights. Although more research is ongoing, the potential connection means that taking care of your gums and teeth is an essential part of prenatal health. Why Dental Care Shouldn’t Wait Some expectant mothers worry about dental treatments during pregnancy. The good news is that routine dental care—including cleanings and necessary treatments—are not only safe but recommended during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists confirms that preventive dental work is important and can be performed safely, especially in the second trimester. Delaying care can allow small problems to become bigger ones, and untreated infections can pose a risk to both you and your baby. If you are planning to become pregnant, scheduling a dental checkup beforehand is an excellent way to get ahead of any issues. Practical Tips for Expectant Mothers Maintaining oral health during pregnancy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to keep your smile healthy throughout your pregnancy: Brush and Floss Regularly: Aim to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. This helps remove plaque and reduce your risk of gingivitis. Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on nutritious foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which support both your oral and overall health. Manage Morning Sickness: If you experience vomiting, rinse your mouth with water or a fluoride mouthwash rather than brushing immediately afterward, as stomach acid can soften tooth enamel. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and can also help combat dry mouth, which is common in pregnancy. Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Let your dental team know you are pregnant so they can tailor your care. At Stephens Dentistry, we take extra precautions to ensure your comfort and safety during each visit. Learn more about our preventive dental services . Recognizing When to Call Your Dentist While mild gum sensitivity is common, it’s important to reach out to your dentist if you notice persistent bleeding, swelling, or pain. These symptoms could indicate an infection that needs prompt attention. If you develop a dental emergency during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist—timely care is always the best choice for both you and your baby. Supporting Your Health at Stephens Dentistry At Stephens Dentistry, we’re committed to providing compassionate, personalized dental care for every stage of life—including pregnancy. Our team stays up-to-date on the latest guidelines and safety protocols to ensure you receive the best care possible. For more information on how we support our patients during pregnancy, visit our dental care for families page. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, and your smile should be a part of it. Prioritizing your oral health is a gift to yourself and your growing family. If you have questions or want to schedule your next dental visit, contact our office —we’re here to help you every step of the way.
April 29, 2025
Discover the lifelong benefits of restorative dentistry at Stephens Dentistry. Protect your oral health and enhance your smile. Schedule an appointment today.
a man holding his jaw in pain
April 1, 2025
Identify common dental emergencies with Stephens Dentistry. Get essential first aid tips to manage urgent situations effectively. Contact us today for expert advice.
a man sitting in a dentist's chair smiling
March 4, 2025
Explore the latest cosmetic dentistry trends at Stephens Dentistry in Evanston to enhance your smile. Schedule a consultation today for a radiant transformation.
More Posts