Hot Summers in WNY Mean Cold Treats... and Sensitive Teeth

Let’s be honest: Buffalo summers are a gift.

After months of snow, we finally get warm, sunny days. It’s the season of waterfront strolls, ice cream stands, cold patio drinks, and festivals.

But there’s one thing a lot of us don’t expect with all those cold treats: sensitive teeth.

If you’ve ever taken a big bite of ice cream or sipped a frozen cocktail only to get a sudden zinger of pain in your teeth, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

Let’s talk about why that happens, what you can do about it, and how to enjoy Buffalo summers without wincing.

What You Need to Know About Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive teeth (or dentin hypersensitivity) is probably the most common dental complaint I see in my practice. It’s that sharp, sudden pain when your teeth meet something cold, hot, sweet, or acidic.

The pain isn’t usually long-lasting, but it can be enough to ruin your cone from Anderson’s.

Why Are My Teeth Sensitive?

Good question. And one that almost everyone asks at some point. There could be a couple different reasons as to why.

Your teeth are made of layers. 

The outer layer (enamel) is like armor, protecting the softer, nerve-filled dentin underneath.

Your tooth roots have a protective layer called cementum instead.

When enamel or cementum wears away, it exposes the dentin. This layer has tiny tubules leading straight to the tooth’s nerve. 

Cold, heat, sweets, or even air can trigger pain signals through these tubules.

What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

Spoiler alert: it’s not just “bad luck.” Here are the big culprits I see:

Enamel Wear

• Brushing too hard 

• Using hard-bristled toothbrushes

• Acidic foods and drinks (soda, citrus, wine)

• Age-related thinning

Gum Recession

• Your gums pull back, exposing root surfaces without enamel.

• Often linked to gum disease, aggressive brushing or occlusion (the way your top and bottom teeth come together)

Cavities (Tooth Decay)

• Holes in enamel/dentin let stimuli right in.

Cracked or Chipped Teeth

• Breaks can let cold or sweet hit the nerve.

Worn or Leaking Fillings

• Old fillings can fail and expose dentin.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

• Can wear away enamel or cause micro-cracks.

Dental Procedures

• Whitening, fillings, or crowns can cause temporary sensitivity.

Care and Treatment for Sensitive Teeth

Now the good news: you don’t have to swear off ice cream forever.

Desensitizing Toothpaste 

These special formulas (like Sensodyne) help block pain signals over time. Just swap it into your daily routine.

Fluoride Treatments

Professional fluoride varnishes or gels strengthen enamel. I offer these right here in Amherst.

Dental Bonding or Sealants 

We can cover exposed root surfaces to protect dentin.

Gum Grafting

For serious gum recession, a graft can cover exposed roots.

Root Canal

Worst-case scenario (but sometimes needed), especially if the pulp is involved.

What Happens if You Don’t Treat It?

I know Buffalonians are tough. I know you’ll say, “Eh, it’s not that bad.”

But ignoring sensitivity can mean:

• Worsening pain over time

• Underlying issues like cavities or gum disease going untreated

• Potential infections if cracks or decay get deeper

Treating sensitivity early is cheaper, easier, and less painful than dealing with bigger dental problems later.

Can Sensitive Teeth Be Prevented?

You bet.

• Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

• Use fluoride toothpaste (and desensitizing toothpaste if you need it).

• Limit acidic foods and drinks.

• Rinse with water after acidic meals.

• Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth.

• Get regular dental checkups to catch issues early.

Basically… Be kind to your teeth. 

When Should Sensitive Teeth Be Treated by a Dentist?

If sensitivity is:

• New

• Worsening

• Severe enough to make you avoid certain foods

• Associated with visible damage or gum recession

It’s time to come see me. Sensitive teeth can signal bigger problems that need professional care.

FAQ About Sensitive Teeth

What are sensitive teeth?

Teeth that hurt when exposed to cold, heat, sweets, acid, or even air due to exposed dentin.

What causes sensitive teeth?

Enamel wear, gum recession, cavities, cracks, grinding, or old fillings.

How are sensitive teeth treated?

Desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride, bonding/sealants, gum grafts, or root canals in severe cases.

What happens if you don’t treat it?

Pain can get worse. Cavities, gum disease, or fractures can progress unnoticed.

Can sensitive teeth be prevented?

Yes. Gentle brushing, fluoride, avoiding acids, and wearing a night guard if needed.

When should I see a dentist?

If pain is new, worsening, severe, or interfering with eating and drinking.

Questions to ask your dentist:

• What’s causing my sensitivity?

• Do I need a filling or other treatment?

• Should I change my brushing routine?

• Would a night guard help?

• Is there damage I can’t see?

Sensitive Teeth: Why They Hurt and How to Stop the Pain

Bottom line? Sensitive teeth are common, especially when Buffalo summers have us all reaching for some cold sweet treats.

But you don’t have to avoid ice cream forever. A few small changes, the right products, and regular checkups can make a big difference.

If you’re dealing with sensitivity, let’s figure it out. I’ll work with you to find the cause and the best treatment so you can get back to enjoying everything summer has to offer, pain-free.