Narrator: If sipping on a hot or cold beverage makes your teeth hurt, you probably have a common problem called sensitive teeth. The pain can be sharp, and can also happen when you eat sweet or sour foods or even when you breathe cold air.

Sandra Burkett, D.D.S., Instructor in Clinical Dentistry, Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery: Teeth become sensitive when the outer layer, called enamel, wears away or cracks, exposing the layer underneath, which is called dentin.

Dentin has hundreds of tiny hollow tubes or canals called tubules that lead to the tooth's center, where the nerve is. If these tubules are exposed, foods, drinks, even air can stimulate the tooth's nerve, causing pain.

Many things can lead to sensitive teeth, and one that might surprise you is brushing too hard. Scrubbing your teeth too hard can wear away enamel and also can cause gums to recede. This also can happen when you use a hard-bristled toothbrush.

Receding gums expose the roots of the teeth, which are very sensitive. Gum disease also can cause gums to recede, so poor oral hygiene can lead to tooth sensitivity.

Tooth whitening products can cause teeth to become sensitive, especially if they are used too often.

Eating or drinking a lot of acidic foods or drinks, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes and carbonated beverages, also can contribute to enamel erosion.

Some people grind or clench their teeth, especially at night. This can cause the enamel to wear away and make teeth sensitive.

The good news is that sensitive teeth can be treated, and there's a good chance that the sensitivity will go away.

The first thing to try is a desensitizing toothpaste. There are several different kinds, and if one doesn't work for you, try a different one with a different desensitizing ingredient. And remember, it can take four to six weeks before you notice a difference.

If the toothpaste doesn't do the trick, your dentist can apply a stronger desensitizing agent in the office. Your dentist also can prescribe a fluoride rinse or gel that you can use at home.

Sometimes, bonding agents can be used to cover the exposed areas to block the tubules to prevent sensitivity.

If you still have sensitive teeth after these measures, your dentist may suggest surgery to graft gum tissue over the exposed roots of your teeth.

Remember, you might have to change some habits to prevent the sensitivity from returning.

Use a soft toothbrush and brush gently around the gum line. At your next dental appointment, you can check your brushing technique with your dentist or dental hygienist.

If you grind or clench your teeth, your dentist can make a mouthguard that you can wear at night to protect your teeth.

You might also want to check your diet. If you drink acidic beverages, it can help to sip them through a straw. You can also drink something neutral, such as milk or water, after eating or drinking something acidic. And you might want to avoid sharp-flavored or spicy foods.

To help keep your teeth from becoming too sensitive, it's also important to see your dentist regularly and to keep your teeth healthy by brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day.