Imagine this: it’s a scorching afternoon in Singapore, and you’re savoring a refreshing bubble tea to beat the heat. Just as you take a big sip, you’re hit with an unexpected jolt of pain shooting through your teeth. If you’ve ever faced this discomfort, you’re not alone. 

For many of us, the combination of our beloved cold drinks and the sweltering weather can sometimes lead to sudden tooth sensitivity. Thankfully, understanding the root causes and solutions for sensitive teeth can help you keep enjoying your favourite treats without the pain. Let’s dive into how you can soothe those sensitive teeth and keep your smile as bright as your bubble tea is sweet.

What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

Not sure why you have sensitive teeth? There are several underlying causes of tooth sensitivity, and identifying the specific reasons as to why your teeth are sensitive all of a sudden can help you better manage any discomfort in the future.

The common causes of sensitive teeth include:

  • Enamel erosion: Acidic foods and drinks can erode tooth enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth that protects against decay, revealing the sensitive dentin beneath.
  • Gum recession: If you have any gum issues, such as receding gums, the unprotected root surfaces and nerves of your teeth can become exposed, leading to increased sensitivity.
  • Cracked teeth: Cracks on your teeth can expose dentin, which may result in an exposed nerve, particularly if the crack is severe. This can cause tooth pain when drinking cold water or consuming hot beverages.
  • Dental procedures: Recent dental work may temporarily heighten tooth sensitivity due to the physical impact on your teeth and the chemicals used in the procedures.
  • Bruxism: This condition, involving habitual teeth grinding or clenching, often leads to enamel wear and heightened tooth sensitivity.

8 Ways to Combat Sensitive Teeth

Are you eager to find out how to stop sensitive teeth pain immediately? The quickest way to address this discomfort is by following these methods:

1. Protect your enamel

Brushing twice a day is recommended to strengthen and maintain enamel health, but brushing too hard can also cause abrasion to your teeth and their outer protective layer. 

For a comfortable brushing experience, opt for a soft toothbrush, like Pearlie White’s BrushCare Professional Sensitive Extra Soft Toothbrush or BrushCare Enamel Protect Adult Soft Toothbrush, to maintain gentle dental care and prevent teeth sensitivity. You can explore more toothbrush variants for sensitive teeth that Pearlie White offers.

2. Fix your teeth

If you've got a broken or cracked tooth, it's essential to address it promptly. Head to your dentist and check if any of your teeth need work on them.

3. Stop grinding your teeth

Grinding your teeth is often portrayed on TV to show anger. However, in reality, it only harms your teeth and causes sensitivity issues. You might not even realise you’re doing it while you sleep. To help identify this, ask your partner, housemate, or a family member to observe if you grind your teeth at night. If they notice you do, consider getting a mouth guard to prevent further night-time grinding activities.

4. Brush with a toothpaste for sensitive teeth

Using toothpaste specifically formulated for sensitive teeth can make a significant difference in managing discomfort and pain. You can check out Pearlie White’s range of toothpaste for sensitive teeth, such as the Active Remineralization Fluoride Free toothpaste, which contains hydroxyapatite, one of the main minerals teeth enamel is made of, the Advanced Sensitive Fluoride Toothpaste, or the All Natural Sensitive Toothpaste.

Additionally, it contains xylitol, which raises the pH level of saliva, encouraging the natural minerals in your saliva to be deposited into demineralised tooth enamel. By brushing regularly with toothpaste for sensitivity, you’re actually helping to repair your demineralised enamel.

5. Treat your gums good

The roots of your teeth lack enamel protection, which makes them more vulnerable. To take better care of your gums and reduce sensitivity, consider brushing with a toothpaste specifically formulated for gum health, such as Pearlie White’s Advanced Gum Health Fluoride toothpaste. Flossing is also essential for good gum health. The FlossCare Plus PTFE Mint Floss is recommended for individuals with sensitive teeth. 

6. Don’t bleach your teeth

Teeth whitening treatments are not always necessary. In fact, you can naturally brighten your teeth and avoid chemicals that may increase sensitivity just by making simple lifestyle changes. A lot of what discolours your teeth lies in the foods and drinks you consume. For example, quitting smoking and reducing your coffee intake can help reduce teeth stains and decrease sensitivity.

7. Look out for potassium nitrate + fluoride

Toothpaste with fluoride can help strengthen and even repair some of that enamel you’re so sorely lacking. If you don’t see the word “fluoride” on the ingredients list, look for “sodium monofluorophosphate”, which is what it’s known as. Potassium nitrate is another thing that you want to look out for because it blocks the pain signals in your teeth so that you can enjoy your favourite foods without fear of experiencing pain from teeth sensitivity.

8. Maintain. Maintain

Maintain consistent oral care to further relieve sensitive teeth and prevent them from returning. Alongside daily brushing and flossing, you can use Pearlie White’s Sensirinze Fluoride Mouth Rinse For Sensitive Teeth, which contains Tea Tree Oil and Thymol to fight plaque and help strengthen enamel.

Say Goodbye to Sensitive Teeth 

As we've discussed the different ways to combat sensitive teeth, the next and final step is putting these tips into practice. To ensure you're well-equipped on your journey to better oral health, make sure to buy toothpaste and other dental care products from reputable brands. 

Consider checking out Pearlie White’s full range of sensitive teeth oral care products to maintain a healthy, pain-free smile.