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 Long Point
A jolt from cold lake water, ice cream or winter air can signal sensitive teeth. Long Point patients can find the cause and relief options in Port Dover.
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.
Caring for Long Point residents, cottagers and visitors at our Port Dover office
Browse every dental service for Long PointFind the trigger, then the fix
Sensitive teeth are telling you something about the enamel or gums.
Tooth sensitivity is a short, sharp twinge triggered by cold, heat, sweets, acidic foods or even air. It usually happens when the protective enamel wears thin or gums recede, exposing the dentin beneath, which contains tiny channels leading to the nerve. Sensitivity can also signal a crack, a leaking filling or decay, so it is worth having persistent symptoms checked rather than simply putting up with them.
Long Point patients bothered by sensitivity can book an assessment at our Port Dover office. The dentist will look for the cause and suggest treatments that match it.
Common causes
Several things can expose sensitive dentin.
Enamel wear and gum recession
Brushing too hard, grinding, acidic foods and drinks, and reflux can wear enamel. Gum recession from brushing habits or gum disease exposes root surfaces, which lack enamel protection. Whitening products can also cause temporary sensitivity.
Dental problems
Cavities, cracked teeth, worn or leaking fillings and recent dental work can cause sensitivity. If one tooth is very sensitive or pain lingers after the trigger is gone, it may suggest a problem that needs treatment beyond desensitizing toothpaste.
Assessment
Pinpointing the cause guides treatment.
Examining teeth and gums
The dentist asks which teeth are sensitive, what triggers them and how long the pain lasts. They examine teeth for wear, recession, cracks and decay, and may test teeth with cold or air. X-rays can reveal hidden decay or problems around fillings.
Ruling out other problems
If sensitivity is generalized, it may relate to enamel wear or recession. If it is limited to one tooth or lingers, a crack, cavity or nerve problem may be involved. The dentist explains findings and recommends treatment based on what is found.
Treatment options
Relief often begins with simple steps.
At-home desensitizing
Desensitizing toothpaste used consistently for several weeks can reduce sensitivity for many people. Switching to a soft toothbrush and gentle technique helps protect enamel and gums. Limiting acidic drinks and rinsing with water afterward also helps.
In-office treatments
Fluoride varnish, bonding agents or sealants can be applied to sensitive areas. If recession is significant, gum grafting may be discussed. Cracks, cavities or leaking fillings are treated directly. A night guard may help if grinding is wearing enamel.
Prevention
Protecting enamel prevents future sensitivity.
Daily habits
Use a soft brush with gentle pressure, and avoid brushing immediately after acidic foods or drinks. Drink water regularly, especially during long summer days outdoors. If you grind, ask about a night guard. Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel.
Regular reviews
Report changes in sensitivity, especially if one tooth becomes more sensitive or pain lingers. Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor recession and wear. Early attention usually means simpler treatment.
Planning your appointment
Getting sensitivity checked from Long Point
Call our Port Dover office to book an assessment if sensitivity persists or affects eating and drinking. Mention which teeth are sensitive and what triggers them.
Note how long the twinge lasts after a trigger, and bring a list of any whitening or desensitizing products you have used.
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
Sensitivity questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
Why are my teeth suddenly sensitive?
Sudden sensitivity can result from enamel wear, gum recession, a crack, a cavity or recent dental work. An assessment helps identify the cause and the right treatment.
Does sensitive toothpaste really work?
For many people, yes, when used consistently for several weeks. It works best for general sensitivity from exposed dentin. Persistent or one-tooth sensitivity should be checked.
Can whitening cause sensitivity?
Yes, whitening can cause temporary sensitivity. It usually fades after treatment. The dentist can suggest ways to reduce it, such as sensitivity toothpaste or shorter sessions.
Is sensitivity a sign of a cavity?
Sometimes. Sensitivity to sweets or lingering pain may suggest decay. The dentist will examine and may take X-rays to determine whether a cavity is present.
Can gum recession be reversed?
Receded gums do not grow back on their own. Treatment can reduce sensitivity and prevent further recession. Gum grafting may be considered in some cases.
Related causes and care
Additional Services →Cracked and Broken Tooth Repair →
A sharp twinge when biting or releasing can point to a crack. Long Point patients can have a cracked tooth examined and repairs explained in Port Dover.
Dental Hygiene and Preventive Care →
Prevention keeps more teeth healthy for longer. Long Point patients can work with our Port Dover hygiene team on cleanings, home routines and personal risk.