The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the nerves in your teeth become irritated, often due to damage or thinning of the enamel. The enamel normally protects the dentin layer and tooth nerve, but when it’s worn away, the nerve is exposed.
Common causes of enamel damage include:
- Eating or drinking acidic foods and beverages, especially before bed
- Skipping routine oral care like flossing
- Brushing too aggressively or using a hard toothbrush
- Using professional dental tools at home
- Health issues like bulimia or acid reflux
- Untreated gum disease and gum recession
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Untreated dental cavities
- Using tobacco, cannabis products, or vaping
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Overusing teeth whitening products
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
The first step when experiencing tooth pain is to visit the dentist. A thorough exam will help rule out other causes and identify any damage or decay. With a formal diagnosis, you’ll know you’re on the right path. Here’s how we approach the process:
Figure Out the Underlying Cause
We’ll ask you about your sensitivity, including frequency and triggers. X-rays and tests like the tap or cold test will help identify the issue.
Personalized Advice
Since there are many causes of tooth sensitivity, after the exam, we’ll provide tailored advice to strengthen your enamel and prevent future issues.
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 toothbrush with soft bristles, and brush twice daily with desensitizing toothpaste. Gently clean along the gumline, floss, and use a fluoridated mouthwash. Avoid acidic and sugary foods and drinks, especially before bed. If you grind or clench your teeth, practice relaxation techniques. For lasting relief, visit the dentist to determine the underlying cause of the pain.
Improving your dental hygiene can sometimes stop tooth sensitivity, especially with fluoride treatments. However, dental pain is a sign that something may be wrong, and it’s important to have it checked. If enamel is too damaged or decayed, you may be at risk of infection or an abscess.
Stress can indirectly contribute to tooth sensitivity. It can lead to neglecting oral care, eating more sugary or acidic foods, or grinding and clenching teeth, especially at night.
Acidic, sweet, starchy, and hard foods can wear down enamel or damage teeth. Common culprits include:
- Acidic foods: Coffee, wine, citrus fruits, soda, pickles.
- Sweet foods: Candy, chocolate, jam, sugary drinks.
- Starchy foods: Chips, bread, crackers, donuts.
- Hard foods: Ice, hard candy, popcorn kernels.
Choose low-acid, low-sugar foods that promote dental health:
- Drinks: Water, green or black tea.
- Snacks: Nuts, raisins, apple slices, carrots, cheese.
- Meals: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, meat with vegetables.
- Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta, berries, applesauce.
Moderation and good oral hygiene are key to preventing sensitivity and promoting dental health.
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