The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity happens when the nerves inside your teeth are exposed or irritated. Typically, teeth are shielded by a strong enamel layer. Beneath this enamel is dentin, and at the core of the tooth is the pulp, which houses nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When enamel becomes thin or dentin is exposed, the nerves lose their protection. Sensitivity is usually triggered by various habits or conditions that damage or wear down tooth enamel.
Ways Tooth Enamel Can Be Damaged:
- Eating or drinking acidic foods and beverages, especially late at night.
- Skipping regular oral hygiene practices like flossing.
- Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with stiff bristles.
- Using professional-grade dental tools at home without proper training.
- Health conditions such as acid reflux or bulimia that expose teeth to stomach acid.
- Gum disease or gum recession that is left untreated.
- Cracked, chipped, or otherwise compromised teeth.
- Untreated dental cavities.
- Using tobacco products, cannabis, or vaping.
- Grinding or clenching your teeth excessively.
- Overusing certain teeth-whitening products.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
The first and most crucial step when experiencing dental pain or sensitivity is to visit the dentist. We will help rule out other possible causes of your discomfort and recommend treatments to address any damage or decay found during your appointment. With a clear diagnosis, you can move forward with confidence, knowing you’re on the right path. Let’s break down the process:
Figure Out the Underlying Cause
We don’t rely on assumptions. During your exam, we’ll ask you to describe your sensitivity and how frequently it occurs. Diagnostic tools like new X-rays, the cold test, or the tap test may be used to pinpoint the issue, and your teeth and gums will be carefully examined.
Treatment in the Office
Damaged or decayed teeth can be restored with various treatments, from simple fillings to more advanced solutions like crowns. For worn enamel, there are at-home remedies as well as in-office treatments that may be effective. We’ll discuss all available options, and you’ll have the final say in your care plan.
Personalized Advice
Tooth sensitivity has many potential causes. After a thorough dental exam, your dentist will narrow it down to the specific issues affecting you. We’ll provide personalized tips and recommendations to help you strengthen your enamel at home and prevent future sensitivity or decay.
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 gently twice a day using desensitizing toothpaste, paying close attention to the gumline. Incorporate flossing and use a fluoridated mouthwash regularly. Avoid consuming acidic and sugary foods or drinks such as coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice, particularly before bedtime. If you notice yourself grinding or clenching your teeth, try mindfulness or relaxation techniques to ease the strain on your jaw. To address the root cause of sensitivity and eliminate the pain permanently, a visit to the dentist is essential.
In some situations, improving your oral hygiene habits can alleviate tooth sensitivity. Keeping your teeth clean can prevent further enamel erosion, allowing your enamel to begin repairing itself with the help of fluoride treatments. However, dental pain often indicates a deeper problem. If the dentin underneath your enamel is exposed, there is a risk of infection or abscess, which requires professional attention.
Stress can contribute to tooth sensitivity indirectly. When under stress, people may neglect oral hygiene routines, consume more sugary or acidic foods, or smoke. Stress is also a common cause of teeth grinding or clenching, which can wear down enamel and increase sensitivity. Many individuals grind their teeth at night without realizing it.
Certain foods and drinks can contribute to enamel erosion, leading to sensitivity:
- Acidic foods: Coffee, wine, fruit juices, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar.
- Sugary foods: Chocolate, candies, caramel, ice cream, jams, and sodas (again!).
- Starchy foods: Bread, cakes, donuts, cookies, crackers, and chips.
- Hard foods: Chewing ice, hard candies, or foods with pits or kernels, such as popcorn, cherries, and olives.
You don’t need to avoid these entirely; just enjoy them in moderation and maintain a good oral hygiene routine, especially before going to bed.
Low-acid and low-sugar options are ideal for managing sensitivity. Foods high in fiber and dairy products that promote saliva production are particularly beneficial. Aim for a balanced diet rich in protein and calcium. Here are some excellent choices:
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