The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the nerves in your teeth become exposed or irritated, often due to thinning enamel. Enamel protects the dentin and the nerve inside the tooth. When enamel is worn down or damaged, the nerve loses its protection, causing pain.
- Eating or drinking acidic foods and beverages, especially before bed
- Skipping routine oral care, including flossing
- Brushing too aggressively or using a hard toothbrush
- Trying to use professional dental tools at home
- Health conditions like bulimia or acid reflux that expose teeth to stomach acid
- Untreated gum disease or gum recession
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Untreated cavities
- Tobacco, cannabis, or vaping use
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Overuse of teeth whitening products
Common causes of enamel damage include:
Identifying the cause of tooth sensitivity is key to finding the right treatment and protecting your teeth.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or discomfort, the first step is to see your dentist. A thorough examination will help identify any underlying causes, and we’ll recommend the best treatment based on your diagnosis. Here’s how the process works:
Identify the Underlying Cause
We’ll ask you to describe your sensitivity and how often it occurs. New X-rays may be needed, and your dentist will examine your teeth and gums closely. Additional tests, like a tap or cold test, may also be used to pinpoint the issue.
Personalized Advice
To address your tooth sensitivity, your dentist will provide specific recommendations for your situation, including tips to strengthen your enamel and prevent further decay at home. You’ll receive tailored advice to ensure long-term relief and oral health.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently along the gumline twice a day with desensitizing toothpaste. Floss and rinse with fluoride mouthwash. Avoid acidic and sugary foods and drinks like coffee, soda, and citrus, especially before bed. If you grind or clench your teeth, consider relaxation techniques. However, for long-term relief, seeing your dentist is essential to identify and address the underlying cause.
In some cases, improving oral hygiene can help prevent further sensitivity, allowing enamel to remineralize with the help of fluoride treatments. However, dental pain is a warning sign that needs professional evaluation. If the enamel is too damaged and dentin is exposed, it can lead to infection or abscesses.
While stress doesn’t directly cause tooth sensitivity, it can contribute. Stress may lead to poor oral habits, such as neglecting oral care, eating acidic or sugary foods, smoking, or grinding/clenching teeth, which can exacerbate sensitivity.
Acidic, sugary, and starchy foods can contribute to enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity.
- Acidic foods: Coffee, wine, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, vinegar.
- Sweet foods: Chocolate, jams, caramel, sugary treats, ice cream, soda.
- Starches: Donuts, bread, chips, cookies.
- Hard foods: Ice, hard candies, foods with pits or hard kernels like popcorn.
Moderation and proper oral care, especially before bed, are key to managing sensitivity.
Foods that are low in acid and sugar, and high in fibre, protein, and calcium, are great for tooth health. Here are some options:
- Drinks: Water, green tea, black tea.
- Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery, carrots, apple slices, cheese.
- Meals: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, meats, and veggies.
- Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta cheese, berries, apple sauce.
These foods help support your enamel and promote healthy teeth.
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