While pain and discomfort after consuming cold things like ice cream or hot things like a coffee can be associated with cavities, it is not an uncommon complaint for individuals with teeth sensitivity. Teeth sensitivity is otherwise referred to as dentin hypersensitivity and while it could be chronic, it can also be temporary for either just one tooth or several teeth. There are quite a few different causes of teeth sensitivity, although, in most cases, you can improve this dental condition with a proper dental hygiene routine such as brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash at least twice each day. Teeth whitening is also another fantastic method of ensuring that your teeth are as white and as clean as possible and you can purchase a professional or basic kit online, conveniently from an accredited retailer such as pearly whites. 

Even though some individuals may simply have more sensitive teeth naturally, the enamel that protects your teeth can be worn down to cause an increase in sensitivity. Brushing teeth too hard and using a hard toothbrush can wear down the outer layer of enamel that helps to protect your teeth. Opting for a soft bristle toothbrush can help prevent tooth sensitivity through brushing teeth. Other causes of sensitivity include grinding your teeth at night while you are sleeping and if this is the case, wearing a gum guard while you sleep can help protect your teeth. Additionally, you should always avoid drinking acidic and sweetened foods and beverages as they are generally bad for your teeth and can lead to unpleasant tooth sensitivity and cavities

Unfortunately, gastroesophageal reflux and health conditions that cause vomiting, such as bulimia, can also lead to teeth sensitivity as stomach acids are pushed up towards the esophagus, which will wear down the enamel on your teeth over time. Receding gums can also expose certain areas of the teeth, leaving them unprotected and prone to sensitivity while tooth decay and broken teeth will also increase your chances of developing sensitive teeth. You should always ensure regular dental hygiene and visit your dentist at least twice a year to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy. 

The symptoms of teeth sensitivity can come and go for no apparent reason, and these symptoms can also vary greatly from mild to intense pain and discomfort. The pain is usually felt at the root of the affected tooth and some of the more common triggers that cause pain and discomfort for individuals with teeth sensitivity include some of the following:

 Hot or cold foods and beverages such as ice cream and coffee.

 Sweet foods and beverages such as soda and candy.

 Acidic foods and beverages such as fruit juice

 Alcohol-based mouthwashes, brushing and flossing.

 Cold air and cold water.

If you are suffering from mild tooth sensitivity, opting for a desensitizing toothpaste, a toothbrush with soft bristles and an alcohol-free mouthwash will improve the condition greatly. You should also avoid acidic and sweetened foods and opt for a mouth guard if you are prone to grinding your teeth while you sleep. 

There are also some dental procedures that can help you if you suffer from severe teeth sensitivity such as bonding, crowns, and tooth inlays that can mend tooth decay. Other dental procedures such as surgical gum grafts can protect the root of the tooth from sensitivity in cases where the gums have eroded. A root canal is generally the best option for cases of severe tooth sensitivity as a last resort after other methods have not improved the condition. 

Teeth whitening products often contain harsh chemicals that may leave you with mild teeth sensitivity. These chemicals can, in some cases, remove the enamel layer from your teeth while removing stains, which can lead to teeth sensitivity. Luckily, there are things that you can do to avoid this. Opting for teeth whitening kits that do not contain harsh chemicals and rather contain natural ingredients such as charcoal can reduce the chances of sensitivity. Additionally, using a desensitizing gel before whitening your teeth can help to protect the enamel layer and therefore, avoid teeth sensitivity significantly.