7. Steer clear of acidic foods and beverages
Consuming foods and beverages which are really high in acid can also lead to sensitive teeth. “Acid dissolves away tooth enamel, opens up the tubules and makes the teeth more sensitive,” says Dr. Messina.
So what types of foods are acidic? Those that taste sour, says Dr. Messina. That means lemons and other citrus fruits as well as tomatoes and pickles. Carbonated beverages (regular and diet) are also high in acid, as are tea and coffee. And some allegedly healthy foods, like kombucha, have a lot of acid, says Dr. Burnett. Beware also of vinegar cleanses.
Certain medical health issues can also maximize acid levels in your mouth, including gastric reflux, anorexia, bulimia and ulcers, says Dr. Burnett. And beware of mouthwashes that have acid, because they can aggravate your sensitivity. Reducing the acidic food intake should also help to cut down on cavities, says Dr. Burakoff.
