Salty foods generally don't cause pain, says Hack, because they don't cause the fluid in the mouth to change as severely, or move as quickly, as sweet foods do. But very salty foods have been known to cause the same painful sensation. The pain occurs only when the tubules are open, or uncovered, says Palat. There are two main therapies for tooth hypersensitivity. They must be used regularly, and improvement is not felt for several weeks.
Dentists can also apply solutions to seal or block the tubules.
These solutions help new crystals form on the tooth, acting as a substitute enamel and blocking the tubules.