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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Tooth Sensitivity Treatment in Glen Meyer
A sharp twinge from cold drinks or sweets can have several causes. Glen Meyer patients can learn how sensitivity is assessed and which treatments may help.
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Browse all dental services for Glen MeyerFind out why it twinges
Sensitivity is a symptom, and the cause decides the fix.
Tooth sensitivity often feels like a quick, sharp twinge when teeth meet cold air, cold or hot drinks, sweets or brushing. It commonly happens when the protective enamel wears down or gums recede, exposing dentin and its tiny tubules that lead toward the nerve. Cracks, cavities, worn fillings and recent dental work can also cause sensitivity.
If sensitivity is making it harder to enjoy food or brush comfortably, Glen Meyer patients can have their teeth checked at our Port Dover office. The dentist will look for the underlying cause and recommend treatments that suit your situation, from simple home changes to care provided in the chair.
Understanding the cause
Several different problems can feel the same.
Worn enamel and exposed roots
Brushing too hard, using an abrasive toothpaste, grinding at night and frequent acidic foods or drinks can wear enamel over time. Gum recession, often from gum disease or aggressive brushing, exposes root surfaces that lack enamel and are naturally more sensitive. Identifying these patterns helps the dentist recommend changes that protect your teeth from further wear.
Cracks, decay and dental work
Cracked teeth, cavities, broken fillings and leaking restorations can let hot, cold and sweet stimuli reach the nerve more easily. Sensitivity after recent fillings, crowns or whitening is common and is often temporary. Pain that lingers for a long time after the trigger, or occurs with no trigger at all, may indicate nerve inflammation and needs prompt assessment.
Assessment
Details about the twinge help pinpoint the source.
Describing your symptoms
Tell the dentist which teeth are sensitive, what triggers the pain and how long it lasts each time. Mention your brushing habits, toothpaste choice, diet, grinding and any recent dental treatment. Short, sharp sensitivity is often related to exposed dentin, while lingering or spontaneous pain may point to a deeper problem that needs closer attention.
Examining teeth and gums
The dentist examines your teeth for wear, cracks, decay and recession, and checks the edges of existing restorations. Gentle air, cold or touch tests may help identify exactly which areas are affected. X-rays may be recommended to look for hidden decay or problems near the nerve. These findings guide the most appropriate treatment for each sensitive tooth.
Treatment options
Treatment ranges from simple changes to repairs.
Home measures
Using a desensitising toothpaste consistently, brushing gently with a soft toothbrush and limiting acidic foods and drinks can reduce sensitivity for many people. It may take a few weeks to notice improvement, so be patient. Avoid brushing immediately after acidic foods, and ask the hygienist to check your technique to make sure you are not causing more wear.
Professional treatments
The dentist may apply fluoride varnish or desensitising agents to strengthen enamel or seal exposed tubules. Bonding can cover exposed root surfaces, and fillings or crowns may be needed for cavities or cracks. Gum treatment or grafting may be considered for significant recession. If the nerve is inflamed beyond recovery, root canal treatment may be discussed.
Preventing return
Small habits help keep sensitivity under control.
Protecting enamel and gums
Use a soft toothbrush and gentle strokes, angling toward the gum line without scrubbing back and forth. Rinse with water after acidic foods or drinks, and wait a while before brushing. If you grind your teeth, ask about a night guard to reduce wear. Treat gum disease early to help prevent further recession that can expose more root surfaces.
Regular checks
Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor wear, recession and restorations and to catch new cavities or cracks early. Let the team know if sensitivity changes, worsens or starts to linger longer than it used to. Persistent or increasing sensitivity should be checked, since it may signal a problem that needs more than a special toothpaste to resolve.
Planning your appointment
Easing sensitive teeth from Glen Meyer
Call our Port Dover office to arrange an assessment for sensitive teeth. Describe which teeth are affected, what triggers the twinge and how long it lasts, so the team can plan your appointment.
Bring the toothpaste and toothbrush you use, and mention any whitening, recent dental work or grinding you are aware of.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Tooth sensitivity questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Why are my teeth sensitive to cold?
Cold sensitivity often occurs when enamel wears down or gums recede, exposing dentin that carries sensations to the nerve. Cracks, cavities and worn fillings can also cause it. The dentist can identify the cause and recommend treatment.
Does desensitising toothpaste really work?
Many people find that desensitising toothpaste reduces sensitivity when used consistently for several weeks. It may not solve problems caused by cavities, cracks or nerve inflammation, so if sensitivity persists despite regular use, have your teeth checked.
Is tooth sensitivity a sign of a cavity?
Sometimes. Sensitivity can be caused by decay, but also by worn enamel, gum recession, cracks or recent dental work. An examination and sometimes X-rays are needed to determine the actual cause and the most suitable treatment.
Can whitening make sensitivity worse?
It can, at least for a while. People who already have sensitive teeth may notice more discomfort during a whitening course. Mention existing sensitivity before you start, so the dentist can suggest a gentler schedule or ways to prepare your teeth.
When should I worry about sensitivity?
Contact the dentist if sensitivity lingers after the trigger is gone, occurs without a trigger, wakes you at night, or comes with swelling or a bad taste. These signs may indicate nerve inflammation or infection that needs attention.
Related causes and care
Additional Services →Cracked and Broken Tooth Repair →
A sharp twinge when you bite or release can signal a cracked tooth. Glen Meyer patients can learn how cracks are found, treated and protected from spreading.
Dental Hygiene and Preventive Care →
Prevention combines professional cleanings with habits you can keep at home. Glen Meyer patients can learn what a hygiene visit covers and how to cut risk.