Patient video
Welcoming and Wonderful Practice
A patient shares the welcoming atmosphere and positive experience they found at our Port Dover office.
★★★★★
Port Dover Family Dentistry
Tooth Sensitivity Treatment in Jarvis
A sharp twinge with cold drinks or sweets can have many causes. Learn how Jarvis patients can have tooth sensitivity assessed and which treatments may bring relief.
New patients welcomeCDCP accepted
Let’s get you smiling
Book an appointment
Tell us how we can help. Our team will follow up to confirm a time.
Seeing Jarvis patients at our Port Dover office
Every dental service for Jarvis patientsRelief from sharp twinges
Sensitivity is a symptom, so finding the cause comes first.
Tooth sensitivity is a brief, sharp pain triggered by cold, heat, sweets, acidic foods or even breathing cold air. It often happens when the protective enamel wears thin or gums recede, exposing dentin, which has tiny channels leading to the nerve. Sensitivity can also signal a cavity, a crack or a leaking filling.
For Jarvis patients, a visit to our Port Dover office can help sort out whether the twinge is surface wear or something needing repair. The dentist will examine the tooth and suggest steps that fit the cause.
Possible causes
Several conditions can lead to the same symptom.
Worn enamel and receding gums
Brushing too hard, acidic foods and drinks, grinding and gum recession can expose dentin. Sensitivity from these causes often affects several teeth and is triggered by temperature or touch. Recent whitening or dental treatment can also cause temporary sensitivity that usually fades.
Dental problems that cause sensitivity
Cavities, cracked teeth, broken or leaking fillings and gum disease can all cause sensitivity, often in a single tooth. Sensitivity that lingers, worsens or comes with spontaneous pain may indicate nerve involvement. These problems need treatment rather than just desensitizing products.
Assessment
Details help pinpoint the source.
Describing your symptoms
Note which teeth are affected, what triggers the sensitivity, how long it lasts and whether it is getting worse. Mention recent dental work, whitening, changes in your brushing habits or diet. This information helps the dentist distinguish between surface sensitivity and a deeper problem.
What the dentist checks
The dentist examines teeth and gums, checks for recession, decay and cracks, and may apply cold or air to identify sensitive areas. X-rays may be taken. Signs of grinding or acid wear are noted. The dentist will explain what is causing your sensitivity and the options.
Treatment
Treatment matches the cause.
Desensitizing approaches
Desensitizing toothpaste used consistently can reduce sensitivity over a few weeks. In-office fluoride varnish or desensitizing agents may help. Bonding can cover exposed roots. For worn areas, the dentist may recommend changes to brushing technique or diet to prevent further wear.
Repairing the cause
Cavities, cracks and failing fillings are repaired with fillings, crowns or other restorations. Gum recession may be addressed with gum treatment or, in some cases, referral for gum grafting. If the nerve is inflamed or infected, root canal treatment may be needed.
Prevention
Daily habits can reduce sensitivity over time.
Gentler brushing
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure, brushing in small circles rather than scrubbing back and forth. Consider an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor. Use a desensitizing toothpaste and avoid rinsing immediately after brushing so the ingredients can work.
Protecting enamel
Limit acidic foods and drinks like citrus, pop and wine, and drink water afterward. Wait before brushing after acidic foods to avoid brushing softened enamel. If you grind, a night guard may protect teeth. Regular checkups help catch problems early.
Planning your appointment
Getting sensitivity checked from Jarvis
Call our Port Dover office to book an exam for sensitive teeth. Describe which teeth are affected, what triggers the pain and how long it has been happening.
Mention any recent whitening, new toothpaste or dental work, and bring your toothbrush if you would like technique advice.
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.
Does sensitivity mean I have a cavity?
Not always. Sensitivity can come from worn enamel or gum recession. But cavities and cracks can also cause it. An exam helps identify the cause.
Does sensitivity toothpaste really work?
For many people, yes, with consistent use over a few weeks. It works best for sensitivity from exposed dentin rather than cavities or cracks.
Why are my teeth sensitive after whitening?
Whitening can temporarily increase sensitivity. It usually fades after treatment. Desensitizing toothpaste or shorter sessions can help.
Can brushing too hard cause sensitivity?
Yes. Aggressive brushing can wear enamel and push gums back, exposing dentin. A soft brush and gentle technique help prevent further damage.
When should I worry about sensitivity?
If it lingers after the trigger is removed, worsens, wakes you at night or comes with swelling, have it assessed promptly. These signs may indicate nerve involvement.
Related care for sensitive teeth
Additional Services →Cracked and Broken Tooth Repair →
Sharp pain when biting or a tooth that feels split? Jarvis patients can have a cracked or broken tooth examined at our Port Dover office and discuss repair options.
Dental Hygiene and Preventive Care →
Prevention is the most effective dental care. Learn how hygiene visits, fluoride, home routines and diet advice help Jarvis patients keep teeth and gums healthy.