The Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth pain occurs when the nerves in your teeth become irritated. Normally, your teeth are protected by a layer of enamel, beneath which lies dentin, followed by the pulp that contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and the nerve. If the enamel becomes too thin or is worn away, exposing the dentin, the nerve is no longer protected, leading to sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is most often caused by various practices or conditions that erode or damage the enamel.
Common Causes of Enamel Damage:
- Drinking or eating acidic foods and beverages, especially before bed
- Skipping routine dental care, including flossing
- Brushing too aggressively or using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Using professional dental tools incorrectly at home
- Health conditions like bulimia or acid reflux that expose teeth to stomach acid
- Untreated gum disease or gum recession
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Dental cavities, especially if left untreated
- Using tobacco, cannabis, or vaping products
- Grinding or clenching your teeth
- Overuse of teeth whitening products
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
The first step when experiencing tooth pain or discomfort is to visit your dentist. We can identify any underlying causes of your tooth sensitivity and recommend treatments for any damage or decay detected during the appointment. With a formal diagnosis, you can feel confident about moving forward. Here’s how the process works:
Figure Out the Underlying Cause
We’ll never make assumptions. During your exam, we’ll ask you to describe the sensitivity and how often it occurs. You may need new X-rays, and your dentist will carefully examine your teeth and gums. Additional tests, such as the tap test or cold test, may also help pinpoint the issue.
Treatment in the Office
If your teeth are damaged or decayed, we offer several restorative options, ranging from fillings to more complex procedures like crowns. For worn enamel, some treatments can be done at home, but there are also in-office solutions available. We’ll discuss all your options, and you’ll have the final say.
Personalized Advice
There are many potential causes of tooth sensitivity. After your dental exam, your dentist will help narrow down the cause and provide personalized advice to strengthen your enamel and prevent future tooth decay. We’ll give you specific tips that are tailored to your needs, helping you maintain your oral health at home.
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 toothbrush with soft bristles and brushing gently twice a day with desensitizing toothpaste. Floss and use a fluoridated mouthwash to keep your teeth clean. Avoid acidic and sweet foods like coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice, especially before bed. If you notice yourself grinding or clenching your teeth, practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques. However, to fully stop sensitive tooth pain, it’s important to see the dentist to determine the underlying cause.
In some cases, improving your dental hygiene can help stop sensitivity. By preventing further erosion and decay, your enamel can start to heal, especially with fluoride treatment. However, dental pain is a warning sign that something is wrong and needs attention. If the enamel has been damaged enough to expose the dentin, you may be at risk for infection or an abscess, so it’s essential to seek professional help.
Stress can indirectly lead to tooth sensitivity. When stressed, people often neglect their oral care, consume more acidic or sweet foods, or smoke. Stress can also cause teeth grinding or clenching, sometimes even during sleep, which can contribute to sensitivity.
Acidic, sweet, and starchy foods can wear down enamel or feed bacteria that produce acids that damage your teeth. Hard foods can also risk damaging your enamel.
- Acidic foods: Coffee, wine, fruit juice, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar.
- Sweet foods: Chocolate, jams, caramel, sugar, hard candies, ice cream, and soda.
- Simple starches: Donuts, cake, bread, chips, crackers, and cookies.
- Hard foods: Chewing ice, hard candies, and foods with pits or hard kernels, like popcorn or cherries.
Moderation is key, and routine cleaning, especially before bed, can help.
For sensitive teeth, focus on low-acid, low-sugar options. High-fiber foods and dairy are great because they promote saliva production, which helps protect enamel. Try to enjoy a varied, nutritious diet with plenty of protein and calcium.
- Drinks: Water, green tea, black tea.
- Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery, carrot sticks, and cheese.
- Meals: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, meat and potatoes with veggies.
- Dessert: Yogurt, ricotta cheese with berries, applesauce.
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