For many people, a hot cup of coffee in the morning or an ice-cold drink on a sunny day is one of life’s simple pleasures. But for some, that first sip comes with a sharp, uncomfortable sting that makes them wince.
That’s what happened to Emeka.
He loved his morning tea, but one day, he noticed a sudden zing of pain shooting through one side of his mouth whenever he drank something hot or cold. He tried switching toothpastes, brushing harder, even avoiding the sensitive side — but nothing helped.
When Emeka finally visited Smilesdotcom Dental Clinic, we discovered that his enamel had worn down in a few areas, exposing the nerves underneath. The cause? A mix of brushing too hard, skipping regular cleanings, and a little gum recession that went unnoticed.
The good news is that tooth sensitivity is treatable, especially when addressed early. In Emeka’s case, after a simple treatment plan that included desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride therapy, and a few easy habit changes, the pain disappeared completely.
Why Does Tooth Sensitivity Happen?
Tooth sensitivity usually occurs when the protective enamel layer or gums pull back, exposing the dentin (the inner part of your tooth). This allows temperature changes, acids, and sugars to reach the nerves, causing discomfort.
Common causes include:
- Brushing too hard or with a hard toothbrush
- Tooth decay or cavities
- Worn enamel from acidic foods or grinding
- Receding gums
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Old dental fillings that need replacement
What You Can Do
If you often feel a sharp pain from hot, cold, or sweet foods, don’t ignore it. Here are a few steps you can take right away:
- Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently.
- Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth (we can recommend the right one for you).
- Avoid very acidic foods like soda, citrus, and vinegar.
- Schedule a dental check-up — it’s the best way to find and fix the cause early.
Your Comfort Matters
At Smilesdotcom, we’ve helped many patients regain their comfort and confidence by addressing sensitivity before it leads to bigger problems. A short visit could make a big difference — and let you enjoy your favorite drinks again without that sting.
📍 Lekki Branch: 29 Prince Adelowo Adedeji Street, off Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos
📍 Gbagada Branch: 10 Lanre Awolokun Street, Gbagada Phase 2, Lagos
📞 Call: +2349013140324
Your smile deserves comfort — let’s make sure every sip and bite feels just right. 💙
