Don’t Let Sensitive Teeth Ruin Your Summer: 5 Effective Tips to Manage Tooth Sensitivity

Summer is the season for cold treats, refreshing drinks, and outdoor fun. But if biting into an ice cream cone or sipping a chilled soda causes a sudden zing of pain, you may be dealing with tooth sensitivity—a common condition that can take the joy out of your favorite seasonal indulgences.

Tooth sensitivity can feel like a sharp, sudden pain that radiates deep into your teeth, especially when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods. While it can affect anyone, it doesn’t have to ruin your summer plans.

At Michael J. Spitzer, DDS, we’re here to help you enjoy every bite and sip without discomfort. Read on for five dentist-recommended tips to manage sensitive teeth and protect your smile all summer long.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is often a sign that the protective enamel on your teeth has worn away or that gum recession has exposed the dentin layer underneath.

Common causes include:

• Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush

• Worn or damaged enamel

• Chips, cracks, or microfractures in teeth

• Teeth grinding (bruxism)

• Gum recession from periodontal disease

• Weather changes affecting sinus pressure

If you’re experiencing sensitivity regularly, it’s time to take action.

1. Try Desensitizing Toothpaste

One of the simplest options is to try a desensitizing toothpaste. Compared to regular toothpaste, desensitizing formulas contain additives like potassium nitrate and stannous fluoride to reduce sensitivity and protect nerves from painful stimulation. 

Use desensitizing toothpaste in the same way that you would a regular toothpaste formula, and brush twice a day as usual. It may take several applications before you notice a difference, but with regular use, you should see a decrease in sensitivity. If the switch does not help alleviate your pain after a few weeks of use, you may need to speak with your dentist. 

2. Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

One cause of tooth sensitivity can be brushing too hard. This symptom can be avoided by choosing a toothbrush with soft bristles that are gentle on your teeth and gums. Choosing a toothbrush with a small head will also allow you to brush hard-to-reach places and to spend more time in each quadrant of your mouth. 

Look for a toothbrush specially made for massaging the gums. Soft-bristled toothbrushes are designed to minimize irritation and are gentle for brushing and removing plaque from the gumline. Massaging the gums as you brush will help to promote blood flow and reduce inflammation. 

3. Avoid Acidic Foods and Drinks

Frequent consumption of acidic foods and beverages can erode enamel and expose dentin, making your teeth more vulnerable to temperature and pressure.

Limit your intake of:

• Coffee and tea

• Citrus fruits (lemons, oranges, limes)

• Carbonated drinks (even diet sodas)

• Tomatoes and tomato-based sauces

• Fruit juices

If you do enjoy these items, rinse your mouth with water afterward to neutralize the acid and protect your enamel.

4. Avoid Teeth Grinding

Bruxism—clenching or grinding your teeth—can contribute to enamel wear and increased sensitivity. If you grind your teeth at night, a custom night guard can help cushion your bite and prevent further damage. Talk to Dr. Spitzer about a night guard tailored to your needs.

5. Talk to Your Dentist About Advanced Solutions

Tooth sensitivity can sometimes be a symptom of a deeper issue such as gum disease, decay, or an underlying infection. Dr. Michael J. Spitzer, your trusted Costa Mesa dentist, can perform a thorough exam to pinpoint the cause of your discomfort.

Depending on your condition, we may recommend:

• Dental sealants or fluoride varnishes

• Protective coatings for exposed roots

• Treatment for gum disease

• Restorative procedures for damaged teeth

Don’t Ignore Tooth Sensitivity—Get Relief Today

Persistent tooth sensitivity is not impossible to manage. The best things you can do for your oral health are to establish a thorough hygiene routine and schedule regular checkups with your dentist. 

Schedule an appointment at our Costa Mesa, CA, dental office today. At Michael J. Spitzer, DDS, we’re committed to helping you keep your smile strong, comfortable, and summer-ready.

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Scheduling your appointment is quick and easy. Contact us online or call us at (949) 642-1670 to book your visit today. Your healthiest summer smile starts here!