Sensitive Teeth? Dr. Holleman Explains the Causes and Solutions

That sharp zing from ice cream. The sudden jolt when coffee hits your teeth. Sensitivity has a way of stopping you mid-bite. It’s not just about pain—it’s your smile’s way of waving a red flag.

According to Dr. Valerie Holleman, tooth sensitivity can show up for many reasons, and the right fix depends on the cause. Sometimes, it’s one stubborn tooth. Other times, it’s several. Each tells a different story.

Why Sensitivity Happens

Enamel is the armor of your teeth, but even armor can wear thin. Acidic foods, heavy-handed brushing, or grinding in your sleep can slowly strip that protective layer, exposing the dentin beneath. Dentin is full of tiny pathways that lead straight to your tooth’s nerve, and that’s where the “ouch” comes from.

If it’s just one tooth that’s sensitive, decay or a damaged filling is often the culprit. If several teeth twinge—especially near the gumline—it’s more likely gum recession or enamel erosion. The difference matters, and Dr. Holleman looks for these clues before recommending a solution.

Steps You Can Take Right Away

Sometimes small changes make a big difference. Switching to a toothpaste for sensitive teeth, brushing with a soft-bristled brush, and easing up on the pressure can help. Dr. Holleman also advises cutting back on acidic drinks and rinsing with water afterward to give enamel a fighting chance.

When sensitivity doesn’t improve, professional care steps in. Treatments range from fluoride varnishes to strengthen enamel, to bonding that seals exposed dentin, to custom nightguards for those who grind. If gum recession is at play, grafting procedures may protect roots and restore comfort. And if decay is behind the problem, fixing it early is the fastest path to relief.

Keeping Sensitivity Away for Good

Healthy enamel and gums are your best defense. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and see Dr. Holleman regularly for dental checkups. Wear a mouthguard during sports, avoid chewing ice, and be mindful of acidic snacks. Little habits add up, and they can keep that coffee tasting great instead of painful.

Relief for Sensitive Teeth in Broken Arrow, OK With Lynn Lane Family Dentistry

If sensitivity has been stealing the joy from your favorite foods, Dr. Valerie Holleman at Lynn Lane Family Dentistry in Broken Arrow, OK can help. Whether you’re dealing with one bothersome tooth or a mouthful of sensitive spots, she’ll find the cause and create a plan for lasting relief.

Call today to schedule a visit and take the first step toward enjoying your favorite meals and drinks without that unwanted zing.

Categorised in: Tooth Sensitivity