The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
Ever take a sip of hot coffee or bite into ice cream and feel that sudden zing in your teeth? That’s tooth sensitivity, and it’s all about your tooth nerves getting a bit irritated. Normally, our teeth are protected by a hard outer layer called enamel. Underneath that is dentin, and at the very center is the pulp—filled with connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. When the enamel gets too thin or is damaged, it exposes the dentin, leaving the nerves less protected. This exposure is what causes that uncomfortable sensitivity.
So, what can damage your tooth enamel? Here are some common culprits:
- Eating or drinking acidic foods and beverages, especially before bedtime.
- Skipping regular dental care, like brushing and flossing.
- Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles.
- Trying to use professional dental tools at home, which can harm your enamel.
- Health issues like bulimia or acid reflux that expose your teeth to stomach acid.
- Untreated gum disease and receding gums.
- Cracked, chipped, or damaged teeth.
- Untreated cavities, which can get worse over time.
- Using tobacco products, cannabis, or vaping.
- Grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep.
- Overusing teeth whitening products.
If any of these sound familiar, don’t worry—we’re here to help! Addressing these issues can reduce or even eliminate tooth sensitivity. Feel free to reach out to us to find the best solution for your smile.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
If you’re experiencing dental pain or discomfort, the most important first step is to visit your dentist. We can help rule out any underlying issues and recommend treatments for any damage or decay we find during your appointment. With a proper diagnosis, you’ll feel confident knowing you’re on the right track. Let’s break down how we handle tooth sensitivity:
Figure Out the Underlying Cause
We start by getting to the root of the problem—no assumptions here! During your exam, we’ll ask you to describe your sensitivity and how often it happens. You might need new X-rays, and we’ll take a close look at your teeth and gums. Simple tests like gently tapping on your teeth or checking your reaction to cold can also help us pinpoint the issue.
Treatment in the Office
If we find that your teeth are damaged or have cavities, there are plenty of ways we can fix them. This could be something as straightforward as a filling or, in some cases, a more involved procedure like a crown. For enamel that’s worn down, there are treatments you can do at home, but we also offer in-office solutions that might work better for you. We’ll go over all your options, and you’ll have the final say.
Personalized Advice
As you’ve seen, there are many reasons why teeth can become sensitive. Once we’ve completed your dental exam, we’ll be able to narrow down the cause for you. We can give you personalized tips and tricks to strengthen your enamel at home and help prevent future tooth decay. Together, we’ll keep your smile healthy and bright!
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
If you’re experiencing sensitive teeth, there are several steps you can take to alleviate the discomfort. Start by swapping out your toothbrush for one with soft bristles to prevent further irritation. Brush your teeth twice daily using desensitizing toothpaste, and be sure to gently clean along the gumline. Don’t forget to floss and rinse with a fluoride mouthwash to help strengthen your enamel.
Try to avoid acidic and sugary foods and drinks like coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice, especially before bedtime. If you notice yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, practicing mindfulness or relaxation techniques can help give your jaw a much-needed break. To address tooth sensitivity effectively, it’s important to visit your dentist so they can determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
In some cases, improving your dental hygiene at home can reduce tooth sensitivity. Keeping your teeth clean can prevent further erosion and decay, allowing your enamel to repair itself over time—especially with the help of fluoride treatments. However, dental pain is a natural indicator that something may be wrong and shouldn’t be ignored. If your enamel is significantly damaged or decayed, exposing the dentin, you could be at risk for an infection or abscess. Consulting a dentist is the best course of action to ensure proper care.
Yes, stress can indirectly lead to tooth sensitivity. When we’re stressed, we might neglect our regular oral care routine, indulge in sugary or acidic treats, or smoke more—all of which can affect our dental health. Stress can also cause you to grind or clench your teeth, sometimes without even realizing it, especially during sleep. This grinding can wear down enamel, leading to increased sensitivity. Managing stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness can help protect your teeth.
Certain foods and drinks can make tooth sensitivity worse by wearing down your enamel or irritating your teeth. Acids are a big culprit—they can erode the protective layer of your teeth. Sweet and starchy foods feed the bacteria in your mouth, which produce acidic byproducts that further harm enamel. Hard foods can also be tough on your teeth, potentially causing damage or increased sensitivity.
Here are some common offenders:
- Acidic foods and drinks: Coffee, wine, fruit juices (especially citrus fruits), soda, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar.
- Sugary treats: Chocolate, jams and jellies, caramel, sugar, hard candies, ice cream—and let’s give an extra shout-out to juice and soda here!
- Simple starches: Donuts, cakes, bread, potato chips, crackers, and cookies.
- Hard foods: Chewing on ice, hard candies, or foods that might have pits or hard kernels like popcorn, cherries, and olives.
But don’t worry—you don’t have to give up these foods entirely. Just enjoy them in moderation and keep up with your regular dental care, especially brushing before bedtime.
If you’re dealing with sensitive teeth, it’s helpful to choose foods and drinks that are low in acid and sugar. High-fibre foods are excellent because they stimulate saliva production, which naturally protects your teeth. Dairy products are great for the same reason. Aim for a balanced diet rich in protein and calcium to support strong teeth.
Here are some tooth-friendly options:
- Drinks: Water, green tea, and black tea.
- Snacks: Raisins and nuts, celery and carrot sticks, apple slices, and cheese.
- Meals: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, meats, and potatoes with a side of veggies.
- Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta cheese with berries, and applesauce
Remember, enjoying a nutritious and varied diet not only benefits your overall health but can also help reduce tooth sensitivity. Keep up with good oral hygiene practices, and your teeth will thank you!
Google Verified Patient Reviews
