About one out of eight adults struggles with the daily discomfort of sensitive teeth. Most dental sensitivity results from eroded tooth enamel.  However, some basic dietary changes can significantly improve the comfort level of sensitivity sufferers. Here are a few changes you can make to lessen dental sensitivity:

Avoid Acidic Foods and Beverages

Citric foods and juices are culprits in eroding the enamel of your teeth.  As you sip a delicious glass of orange juice or indulge in a juicy tomato, the outer layer of your teeth is slowly being dissolved due to the high acidity.  

Pickled foods, wine, and carbonated beverages, including your favorite soft drink, play primary roles in tooth erosion. One study found that tooth enamel lost five percent of its weight after being placed in a container of soft drink for 48 hours. 

As tooth enamel is demineralized, it offers less protection for sensitive dental nerves, which can lead to significant sensitivity when drinking hot or cold beverages or munching on a crunchy snack.

If you do consume foods or drinks with a high acid content, vigorously rinse your mouth with water immediately after eating or drinking. The water will dilute the acid.  

Even if you're tempted, don't brush your teeth immediately after ingesting something acidic. The tooth enamel may be in a softened state and can suffer excessive erosion at this time.

Limit Sugary Snacks

Since you were a small child, dentists (and parents) have likely drilled into your mind the need to avoid sugary foods. Over-indulging in these cavity creators can facilitate decay in sensitive teeth with compromised tooth enamel. 

This decay can further aggravate dental nerves and a root canal may be necessary to alleviate your discomfort.

Avoid Chomping on Hard Foods or Ice

Hard substances, including irresistible candy, crunchy granola bars or ice chips, can exacerbate dental sensitivity.  In addition, crunching on hard foods can lead to cracked teeth. Once a tooth is cracked, it can suffer from sensitivity at best, but it is more likely to develop significant pain, especially if the crack is deep enough to expose a dental nerve.

Whether you have struggled with sensitive teeth for years or you are just looking to prevent any future enamel erosion, small dietary changes can keep your smile pain-free.  To learn more ways to combat dental sensitivity, schedule an appointment with a dentist in your area. He or she can identify the cause of your sensitivity and prescribe the most effective treatment.

For more information, contact Family Dental Care or a similar location.