What to Do if You Have Sensitive Teeth

If you have one or more teeth that are sensitive to hot and cold, the first thing you need to do is have an evaluation to determine the cause. Tooth sensitivity is largely caused by exposure of a tooth’s dentin, the living tissue making up the body of the tooth. When exposed—most often from gum recession—the dentin, which contains nerve fibers, responds to heat, cold, or even touch with varying degrees of sensitivity. This can range from a slight twinge to downright excruciating pain for some people. On a positive note, as you age, your teeth tend to become naturally less sensitive.