The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth pain occurs when the nerves inside your teeth become irritated. Your teeth are usually protected by a layer of enamel, beneath which is the dentin, followed by the pulp, the core of the tooth filled with connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. If the enamel becomes too thin or is breached, exposing the dentin, the nerve is left unprotected, resulting in tooth sensitivity. This condition is often caused by practices or conditions that erode or damage tooth enamel.
The Many Ways That Tooth Enamel Can Become Damaged::
- Drinking or eating acidic foods and beverages, especially before bed.
- Skipping routine tooth care including flossing!
- Brushing aggressively or using a hard toothbrush.
- Attempting to use professional dental tools at home.
- Health issues (like bulimia or acid reflux) which expose teeth to stomach acid.
- Untreated gum disease and gum recession.
- Damaged, cracked or chipped teeth.
- Dental cavities (especially if left untreated).
- Using tobacco products, cannabis products or vaping.
- Grinding or clenching your teeth.
- Overuse of some teeth whitening products.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
The first step in addressing sensitive teeth is to visit your Port Dover Dentist. They can rule out underlying causes of your tooth pain and recommend treatments for any damage or decay detected. With a formal diagnosis, you can confidently move forward with treatment.
Figure Out the Underlying Cause
Your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums. You’ll be asked to describe your sensitivity and how often it occurs. New X-rays may be taken, and diagnostic tests like the tap or cold test could be used to help pinpoint the cause of your discomfort.
Treatment in the Office
If your teeth are damaged or decayed, various restorative treatments are available, ranging from fillings to crowns. For worn enamel, treatments can often be performed in the office, though at-home options might also be suggested. Together, you and your Port Dover Dentist will discuss all available options, ensuring you have the final say in your treatment.
Personalized Advice
Since there are many potential causes of tooth sensitivity, a thorough dental exam will allow your dentist to narrow down the most likely cause. Based on your exam results, personalized tips and advice will be provided to help strengthen your enamel at home and prevent future tooth 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Switch to a toothbrush with soft bristles and brush gently twice a day with desensitizing toothpaste. Clean along the gumline gently, and don’t forget to floss. Use a fluoridated mouthwash and avoid acidic and sweet foods like coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice, particularly before bed. If you grind or clench your teeth, consider practicing mindfulness or relaxation techniques to give your jaw a break. To fully address sensitive teeth pain, you will need to see a dentist to determine the root cause.
In some cases, improving your at-home dental hygiene can reduce tooth sensitivity. Keeping your teeth clean enough to prevent further erosion or decay can allow enamel to heal, especially with the help of fluoride treatments. However, it’s important to remember that dental pain is a sign something is wrong and needs to be addressed. If the dentin is exposed due to significant enamel damage, you may risk infection or an abscess.
Stress can indirectly lead to tooth sensitivity. Stressed individuals often neglect their oral care routine, consume more acidic or sweet foods, or engage in habits like smoking. Stress can also cause you to grind or clench your teeth, sometimes without realizing it especially during sleep!
Foods that can increase sensitivity include:
- Acidic foods: Coffee, wine, fruit juice (especially citrus), soda, tomatoes, pickles, vinegar.
- Sweet foods: Chocolate, jam, caramel, hard candies, ice cream, and juice or soda.
- Simple starches: Donuts, cake, bread, potato chips, crackers, and cookies.
- Hard foods: Ice, hard candies, popcorn, cherries, olives, or anything with a pit.
This doesn’t mean you need to avoid all these foods, but practicing moderation and maintaining a good dental hygiene routine, especially before bed, is key to managing tooth sensitivity.
For sensitive teeth, opt for low-acid, low-sugar foods and drinks. High-fiber foods are great for your teeth, and dairy products promote saliva production, which can protect your teeth. Here are some foods that are beneficial:
- Drinks: Water, green tea, and black tea.
- Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery, carrot sticks, and apple slices.
- Meals: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, and meat with vegetables.
- Dessert: Yogurt, ricotta cheese, berries, and apple sauce.
Eating a nutritious, varied diet rich in protein and calcium can help support strong, healthy teeth.
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