The Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the nerves inside your teeth become exposed or irritated. Typically, a protective enamel layer covers each tooth. Beneath the enamel lies dentin, and at the core of the tooth is the pulp, which houses connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. When enamel wears down or is compromised, the dentin becomes exposed, leaving the nerve unprotected. Sensitivity is often the result of habits or conditions that damage or erode tooth enamel.
Common causes of enamel damage:
- Consuming acidic foods and drinks, especially late at night.
- Neglecting regular oral care, such as flossing.
- Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles.
- Misusing professional dental tools at home.
- Health conditions like acid reflux or bulimia that expose teeth to stomach acid.
- Gum disease or gum recession left untreated.
- Cracked, chipped, or damaged teeth.
- Untreated cavities.
- Using tobacco, cannabis products, or vaping.
- Teeth grinding or clenching.
- Overusing certain whitening products.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
After experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, the first step is to schedule a dental appointment. This ensures we can rule out other potential causes and address any issues, such as damage or decay, with the right treatment. With a diagnosis in hand, you’ll feel confident knowing the appropriate steps are being taken. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
Figure out the underlying cause
We take a thorough approach to identifying the problem. During your visit, you’ll describe your symptoms and how often they occur. We may recommend updated X-rays and perform a detailed examination of your teeth and gums. Additional tests, like a tap or cold sensitivity test, may help confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment in the office
For teeth with decay or damage, solutions like fillings or crowns may be necessary. If enamel erosion is the issue, we may suggest at-home care along with in-office treatments. We’ll discuss all options with you to determine the most suitable plan for your situation.
Personalized Advice
Since sensitivity can stem from a variety of causes, your dentist will provide a clear explanation after the examination. You’ll receive tailored recommendations to strengthen your enamel and prevent future issues, ensuring your oral health stays on track.
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 a day using desensitizing toothpaste, paying close attention to the gumline. Enhance your routine with flossing and fluoride mouthwash. Limit acidic and sugary foods and drinks like coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juices, especially before going to bed. If you grind or clench your teeth, consider relaxation techniques to reduce jaw strain. For long-term relief, consult your dentist to determine the exact cause and develop an effective treatment plan.
Improved oral care at home can sometimes help manage tooth sensitivity. Preventing further enamel erosion or decay creates an environment where the enamel may repair itself, particularly with the help of fluoride treatments. However, sensitivity is often a warning sign of a deeper issue. If the enamel is severely worn and dentin exposed, there’s a higher risk of infection or abscess, requiring professional attention.
Stress can contribute to tooth sensitivity in indirect ways. It can lead to neglect of proper oral hygiene, increased intake of sugary or acidic foods, and higher use of tobacco products. Stress may also cause teeth grinding or clenching, which can weaken enamel and often occurs during sleep without the person realising it.
Acidic foods and drinks can erode enamel, while sugary and starchy items promote bacteria that produce harmful acids. Hard foods may also damage enamel or teeth. Items like coffee, wine, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar, as well as sweets like chocolate, caramel, and sugary desserts, contribute to enamel wear. Starchy snacks such as bread, chips, and cookies, along with hard items like ice, candies, and foods with pits or kernels, can also impact enamel. Moderation and proper oral hygiene, especially before bed, can reduce their effects on your teeth.
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