If a taste of ice cream, a sip of a cold beverage or even a swig of hot coffee causes discomfort, you may suffer from “sensitive teeth.” Cavities or fractured teeth can cause this condition, but usually it is the result of gums receding away from the teeth, which eventually causes the underlying nerve to be stimulated by liquids and foods with extreme temperatures. Treatments for sensitive spots include everything from using desensitizing toothpastes to in-office techniques using fluoride gels and special prescription desensitizers. In very rare and extremely painful cases, a root canal may be the best course of action.