The Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Sensitivity
To put it simply, tooth sensitivity occurs when the nerves inside your teeth are exposed to irritation. Healthy teeth are protected by a strong outer coating called enamel. Beneath the enamel is dentin, which surrounds the pulp at the centre of the tooth. The pulp contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and the tooth’s nerve. When enamel wears away or becomes damaged enough to expose the dentin, sensations can travel more easily toward the nerve. Tooth sensitivity is often linked to habits, dental problems, or conditions that weaken and wear down tooth enamel.
Common Causes Of Tooth Enamel Damage
- Frequently consuming acidic foods and drinks, particularly before going to bed.
- Inconsistent brushing and flossing or neglecting regular oral care.
- Brushing with excessive pressure or choosing a firm-bristled toothbrush.
- Trying to perform professional dental procedures or use dental instruments at home.
- Health conditions such as acid reflux that repeatedly expose teeth to stomach acid.
- Gum disease or receding gums that leave more of the tooth surface exposed.
- Teeth that are cracked, chipped, worn, or otherwise damaged.
- Cavities that have developed and remain untreated.
- Tobacco use, cannabis use, or regular vaping.
- Clenching or grinding your teeth, especially during sleep.
- Using certain teeth whitening products too frequently or incorrectly.
How Can You Find Relief From Tooth Sensitivity?
If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, the best place to start is with a dental examination. Our team can look for potential causes, including decay, damage, or other dental concerns that may be contributing to your discomfort. Once the cause has been identified, we can recommend appropriate treatment and help you understand your options. Here is what you can expect during the process:
Discovering What Is Causing Your Symptoms
We will take the time to understand what you are experiencing rather than making assumptions. During your appointment, you may be asked when your sensitivity occurs, what triggers it, and how frequently you notice it. Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums, and updated X-rays may be recommended. Additional tests, such as gently tapping the tooth or applying cold, can also help determine the source of your symptoms.
In-Office Options For Protecting Your Teeth
If sensitivity is related to tooth decay or damage, restorative treatments may help protect the affected tooth and reduce discomfort. Depending on your needs, treatment could include a common procedure such as a filling or a more extensive option such as a crown. If enamel has become worn, your dentist may also recommend professional treatments or at-home care. We will explain the available options so you can make an informed decision about your dental care.
Personalized Advice
Tooth sensitivity can have many different causes, so your treatment plan should be based on your individual needs. After examining your teeth and gums, your dentist can provide practical recommendations for managing sensitivity at home. This may include guidance on brushing techniques, oral hygiene habits, and products that can help protect your enamel and lower your risk of future dental problems.
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
- Acidic foods: Coffee, wine and other alcohols, fruit juice and fruits (especially citrus!), soda pop, tomatoes, pickles and vinegar.
- Sweet foods: chocolate, jams and jellies, caramel, sugar, hard candies, ice cream and an extra special second mention for juice and soda!
- Simple starches: donuts, cake, bread, potato chips, crackers and cookies.
- Hard foods: chewing on ice, chewing hard candies, chewing foods that may contain a pit or hard kernel such as popcorn, cherries and olives.
- This doesn’t mean you need to avoid all these foods. Simply practice moderation and routinely clean your teeth, especially before bed.
- Drinks: Water, green tea, black tea.
- Snacks: Raisins and nuts, celery and carrot sticks, apple slices. Cheese.
- Supper: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, meat and potatoes with a side of veggies.
- Dessert: Yogurt, ricotta and berries, apple sauce.
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