Expert: Mark Bornfeld DDS - 12/1/2006

Question
My teeth have always been sensitive to cold, but tonight when I was brushing my teeth I noticed that when I brushed the sides of my upper teeth, I felt pain.  I experienced the pain on the side that I was brushing, but it happened on both sides.  It didn't happen on the lower teeth.  The pain was like when I drink something very cold.  It just happened tonight, but not last night.  Could it be something that I ate tonight?

Answer
Dear Tiffany,

Sensitivity to tactile stimulation (contact) is non-specific, and could be either the result of minor gum recession, wear of the enamel or cemental surfaces, or tooth decay.

To answer your question, yes-- dietary substances can provoke tooth sensitivity. Most often, these are acids-- citrus fruit or fruit juice, vinegar, or products pickled in vinegar. Acid can demineralize sensitive tooth surfaces, making them more sensitive.

Assuming you don't have tooth decay or broken teeth, this type of sensitivity is innocent, and does not merit treatment unless it is severe enough to prevent you from either enjoying your food or practicing proper oral hygiene. Symptomatic relief can be had by using any of the commercially available desensitizing toothpastes.

If it has been a while since your last dental checkup, it would be a good idea to schedule one now-- if only to rule out a more significant reason for your tooth sensitivity.

Hope this helps...

Mark Bornfeld DDS
www.dentaltwins.com
Brooklyn, NY