The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the nerves in your teeth become irritated. Teeth are naturally protected by a layer of enamel, but beneath this layer is dentin, and at the core of each tooth lies the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the enamel thins or is damaged, it exposes the dentin, which is more sensitive and directly connected to the tooth’s nerve, leading to discomfort.
Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity:
- Acidic foods and drinks: Consuming acidic foods, like citrus, or drinks such as soda, especially before bedtime, can erode enamel.
- Inconsistent oral care: Missing flossing or brushing can lead to plaque buildup, which can cause enamel damage.
- Aggressive brushing: Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel over time.
- Improper use of dental tools: Using dental tools at home without proper guidance can cause damage.
- Health conditions: Issues like acid reflux or bulimia expose your teeth to stomach acid, which wears down enamel.
- Gum disease and recession: Untreated gum disease can lead to gum recession, exposing more sensitive areas of the tooth.
- Cracks or chips in teeth: Damaged teeth can expose sensitive inner layers.
- Untreated cavities: If cavities aren’t addressed, they can deepen and cause sensitivity.
- Tobacco, cannabis, and vaping: These can contribute to enamel erosion and tooth damage.
- Bruxism (grinding or clenching): Grinding your teeth puts unnecessary pressure on them, causing wear and sensitivity.
- Overuse of whitening products: Excessive whitening can lead to increased sensitivity by removing enamel.
To manage and prevent tooth sensitivity, it’s crucial to identify the underlying causes and make changes to oral care habits or seek professional treatment when necessary.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or discomfort, the first and most important step is to consult your dentist. Identifying the root cause of your sensitivity is crucial, and with a thorough exam, we can recommend the most effective treatments for any underlying issues, such as damage or decay. Here’s what you can expect during the process:
Identifying the Cause of Sensitivity
We start by carefully assessing the condition of your teeth and gums. You’ll be asked to describe the type of sensitivity you’re experiencing and how often it occurs. To gain a clearer understanding, you might need new X-rays, and additional tests such as a cold or tap test might be performed to pinpoint the cause.
Treatment Options
If your teeth are damaged or decayed, several restorative treatments could be suitable, ranging from common fillings to more advanced procedures like crowns. If the enamel is worn down, home treatments may help, but in-office treatments like fluoride applications or dental sealants might also be recommended. We will review all options with you, and you’ll have the final say on the treatment plan.
Personalized Recommendations
Because tooth sensitivity can stem from a variety of factors, your dentist will provide a tailored solution after evaluating your condition. Based on the findings, we will offer practical tips for strengthening your enamel at home and preventing future damage, helping to keep your teeth in optimal health moving forward.
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
Start by switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing twice daily with desensitizing toothpaste, ensuring gentle cleaning along the gumline. Be sure to floss daily and rinse with fluoride mouthwash to strengthen your enamel. Avoid acidic and sugary foods and beverages such as coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice, especially before bedtime. If you tend to clench or grind your teeth, consider practicing mindfulness or relaxation techniques to alleviate stress on your jaw. For long-term relief, seeing a dentist is essential to pinpoint the cause of your sensitivity and address it accordingly.
In some cases, proper oral hygiene can help halt the progression of sensitivity. When your teeth are cleaned regularly and erosion is prevented, your enamel can actually remineralize. Fluoride treatments are especially helpful in promoting this healing process. However, persistent dental pain should be investigated, as it could indicate significant enamel damage or decay, which may lead to exposure of the dentin, putting you at risk of infection or abscess.
Stress can indeed contribute to tooth sensitivity. Individuals under stress may neglect proper oral hygiene, consume more acidic or sugary foods, or grind their teeth. This often happens unconsciously, especially while sleeping. Bruxism (teeth grinding) can exacerbate wear on tooth enamel, increasing sensitivity.
Certain foods can aggravate tooth sensitivity, including:
- Acidic foods: Coffee, wine, fruit juices, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar.
- Sweet foods: Chocolate, caramel, hard candies, ice cream, and especially juice and soda.
- Simple starches: Donuts, cake, bread, chips, crackers, and cookies.
- Hard foods: Chewing on ice, hard candies, or foods with pits like cherries and olives.
While it’s not necessary to eliminate all of these foods, moderation is key. Always clean your teeth thoroughly, especially before going to bed, to prevent damage from lingering acids or sugars.
For a diet that supports healthy teeth, focus on low-acid, low-sugar foods:
- Drinks: Water, green tea, black tea.
- Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery, carrot sticks, apple slices, cheese.
- Meals: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, lean meats, potatoes with vegetables.
- Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta, berries, applesauce.
These options are gentle on your enamel and provide essential nutrients to help maintain and repair tooth health.
What Our Patients are Saying
- Video testimonials
- Google reviews
Totally Thrilled with the Results!
Patient is Very Happy with the Outcome
I am so happy with my smile
