Foods That Increase Tooth Sensitivity
Jim Tehrani, DDS
Last Updated: January 17, 2025
If you have tooth pain after eating, among the culprits of sensitive teeth may be very acidic food.
Acidic foods and drinks can slowly corrode tooth enamel and uncover the sensitive areas in the tooth’s inner part.
Women and younger people are more likely to experience sensitive teeth. Nevertheless, numerous individuals suffer from minor tooth discomfort due to the hot, cold, acidic, sticky, and sweet food they eat or drink.
Table of Contents
What is Tooth Enamel?
Tooth enamel is the hard outer layer of your teeth that shields the softer inner layers of the tooth and is the defense system for the tooth.
Below the enamel is dentin, which has holes that allow the teeth’ nerve center-pulp to communicate with the outside. The inner space of the tooth is the soft tissue that supports the tooth’s growth the most.
If the enamel is very much weakened, your tooth will lose its defense system and the capacity to resist decay and sensitivity and might get discolored.Moreover, you possess a higher risk for fractures in any given condition.
Foods to Avoid with Sensitive Teeth
Citrus fruits, tomatoes, yogurt, sour cream, pickles, and carbonated beverages form the most acidification in your body.
- Tomatoes: Although tomatoes are a good source of vitamins, especially vitamin C, they also have a high level of acid, so if you have sensitive teeth, avoid eating tomatoes seriously. Be aware that both tomato sauces and raw tomatoes can cause tooth sensitivity.
- Acidic Fruits: Pineapples, grapefruits, lemons, and all acidic fruits can increase tooth sensitivity. These substances cover and damage the enamel of the teeth. Remember that the fruit and its juices have similar effects and can cause pain or tooth sensitivity.
- Candies: Sticky candies, such as taffies, caramel chocolates, bubble gum, and others, can harm people with sensitive teeth. They are not only full of sugar but also stick to your teeth.
- Ice Cream: Ice cream is not only cold but also causes an increase in tooth sensitivity due to its sugar content. For people with sensitive teeth, the lack of tooth enamel causes these sensitivities.
- Salt: Salt is one of the foods that people with sensitive teeth should avoid. It is also an essential factor in aggravating tooth sensitivity.
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How to Enjoy Acidic Foods Without Sensitivity?
Be sure to utilize non-phosphoric fluoride toothpaste only when dealing with sensitive teeth. You have a choice of different viscous toothpastes for curing your sensitive teeth.
They have positive short-term results. Nevertheless, after a few applications, you should recognize a cutback in tooth sensitivity.
Using a soft toothbrush can also help. To maintain good oral health, brush, and floss gently and efficiently rather than harshly, which can wear down enamel.
Brushing hard is unreasonably unwanted, as this gradually removes the tooth enamel and creates sensitive spots.
Food for Sensitive Teeth
Best Foods for Sensitive Teeth Even if you have sensitive teeth, some foods can help protect the enamel from damage and reduce discomfort. Here are excellent examples.
- Dairy Products
Milk, cheese, and yogurt are highly regarded sweet foods with low pH levels. Their high calcium content helps strengthen teeth and gradually creates a balanced pH in the oral cavity to minimize sensitivity. - Leafy Greens
All leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and many others are loaded with vitamins such as calcium and folic acid for oral health; they are also soft, creamy, and gentle on sensitive teeth. - Soft Fruits
Bananas, peaches, melons—all non-acidic fruits that won’t irritate sensitive teeth while providing that essential intake of nutrients. Citrus fruits are what to steer clear of, as they aggravate the sensitivity. - Whole Grain
Oatmeal, quinoa, and whole-grain bread are great for general health and gentle on sensitive teeth. Compared to sugary products, they are also less sticky in between teeth. - Lean Proteins
Chicken, fish, or eggs are excellent sources of protein-rich food items. These are soft and never going to trigger sensitive teeth pain. They also help repair your gums’ tissues. - Green Tea
Green tea contains anti-inflammatory properties known to reduce sensitivity. To prevent it from being exposed to sugars, ensure that it is unsweetened. - Soft Root Vegetables
Nutrient-dense to chew, cooked carrots, sweet potatoes, and beetroot are excellent for ensuring easy chewing thanks to their soft structure, which is ideal for those experiencing sensitivity.
Teeth Sensitive to Sweets and Cold
If you experience discomfort or pain when consuming sweets or cold foods may indicate heightened tooth sensitivity. Sugar can aggravate tooth sensitivity and contribute to decay.
To reduce discomfort:
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks.
- Practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste after consuming sweets.
When sugar comes into contact with exposed nerves in sensitive teeth, it can cause sharp pain. Proper dental care and avoiding sugary substances can help alleviate sensitivity and protect teeth.
Conclusion
Acidic foods can erode tooth enamel, but you can prevent damage with simple precautions.
- After consuming acidic foods, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Then, use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive dental floss.
- If brushing isn’t an option, rinse your mouth with water or chew sugar-free gum to help stimulate saliva production and balance the pH in your mouth.
- Eating calcium-rich foods like cheese can help strengthen enamel and protect your teeth.
Reminder: It could indicate more serious dental issues if you experience significant tooth sensitivity or pain while eating or drinking. In such cases, consult your dentist for diagnosis and treatment.
Beach Cities Dentistry in Manhattan Beach has the opportunity to do this.
Our professionals are devoted to adopting individual treatment methodologies to foster your dental health for a lifetime. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you want to plan a check-up or get the treatment you need.
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