The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the nerves in your teeth become irritated. Normally, the protective enamel layer shields the dentin and pulp beneath. However, when enamel becomes thin or damaged, the underlying nerve is exposed, leading to sensitivity. The most common causes of enamel damage include:
- Eating or drinking acidic foods and beverages, especially before bed
- Skipping routine tooth care, including flossing
- Brushing aggressively or using a hard toothbrush
- Using professional dental tools at home
- Health issues like bulimia or acid reflux that expose teeth to stomach acid
- Untreated gum disease or gum recession
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Untreated dental cavities
- Using tobacco, cannabis, or vaping products
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Overuse of teeth whitening products
If you experience tooth sensitivity, it’s important to identify the cause and seek treatment to prevent further damage.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
The first and most important step when experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity is to visit the dentist. This helps us identify any underlying causes and provide the right treatment for any damage or decay. A formal diagnosis gives you the confidence to move forward with the best solution. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Identify the Underlying Cause
We won’t make assumptions. During your exam, we’ll ask you to describe the sensitivity and its frequency. We may take new X-rays and perform additional tests like the tap or cold test to help with the diagnosis.
Treatment in the Office
If there’s damage or decay, we have various restorative options available, from simple fillings to more advanced treatments like crowns. In cases of worn enamel, some treatments can be done at home, but in-office treatments are also available. We’ll discuss all options with you, and you’ll decide the best approach.
Personalized Advice
Since tooth sensitivity can have multiple causes, an exam is essential for finding the specific issue. After the exam, your dentist will offer tailored advice on strengthening your enamel and preventing further decay at home.
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
In some cases, improving your at-home dental hygiene can help alleviate sensitivity. Maintaining a clean mouth prevents further erosion and decay, and fluoride treatments can aid in enamel remineralization. However, tooth sensitivity often signals an underlying issue that needs attention. If enamel has worn down and exposed the dentin, there’s a risk of infection or abscess, so it’s important to seek professional care.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and desensitizing toothpaste, brushing gently along the gumline twice daily. Floss regularly and rinse with a fluoride mouthwash. Avoid acidic and sweet foods, particularly before bed. If you grind or clench your teeth, stress reduction techniques may help. To address the root cause of sensitivity, visit your dentist for a thorough evaluation.
Yes, stress can contribute to tooth sensitivity indirectly. Increased stress may lead to poor oral hygiene, a higher intake of acidic or sugary foods, and more smoking. It can also cause teeth grinding or clenching, often done unconsciously, which can wear down enamel and increase sensitivity.
Certain foods and drinks can erode enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity. These include:
- Acidic foods: Coffee, wine, fruit juice (especially citrus), soda, tomatoes, pickles, vinegar.
- Sweet foods: Chocolate, jams, caramel, sugar, hard candies, ice cream, juice, and soda.
- Simple starches: Donuts, cake, bread, chips, crackers, and cookies.
- Hard foods: Ice, hard candies, popcorn kernels, and pits in fruits.
Moderation and proper oral hygiene, especially before bed, can help reduce the impact.
To protect your teeth, choose low-acid, low-sugar foods and drinks. High-fiber foods and dairy help promote saliva production, which protects enamel. Here are some good options:
- Drinks: Water, green tea, black tea.
- Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery, carrot sticks, apple slices, cheese.
- Meals: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, meats, potatoes with veggies.
- Dessert: Yogurt, ricotta with berries, apple sauce.
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