The Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is that annoying pain you feel when your teeth react to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods. It happens when the nerves in your teeth get irritated, often because the protective layer of enamel has worn down. Underneath the enamel, there’s a layer called dentin, and at the very core is the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When enamel thins or gets damaged, those nerves can become exposed, leading to sensitivity.
So, what can cause your enamel to take a hit? Here are some common culprits:
- Acidic Foods and Drinks: Consuming things like citrus fruits or soda, especially before bed, can be rough on your enamel.
- Skipping Dental Care: If you’re not flossing regularly, you might be putting your teeth at risk.
- Brushing Too Hard: Using a hard toothbrush or brushing aggressively can erode enamel over time.
- DIY Dental Tools: Trying to use professional dental tools at home can backfire and cause damage.
- Health Issues: Conditions like bulimia or acid reflux expose your teeth to stomach acid, which can wear down enamel.
- Gum Disease: Untreated gum disease and receding gums can lead to sensitivity as well.
- Dental Damage: Cracks, chips, or untreated cavities can leave your nerves exposed.
- Tobacco and Cannabis Use: Smoking or vaping can also contribute to enamel erosion.
- Teeth Grinding: If you grind or clench your teeth, that can wear down the enamel too.
- Overusing Whitening Products: Using whitening treatments too often can lead to increased sensitivity.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
If you’re dealing with sensitive teeth, the first and most crucial step is to visit your dentist. They can help identify any underlying issues and recommend the right treatments for any damage or decay. With a formal diagnosis, you can feel confident that you’re on the right track. Here’s a simple breakdown of the process:
Identify the Underlying Cause
No assumptions here! During your appointment, your dentist will ask you to describe your sensitivity and how often it occurs. They might need to take new X-rays to get a better look at your teeth and gums. Additionally, they may perform diagnostic tests like a tap test or a cold test to pinpoint the problem.
Taking these steps will help ensure that your sensitive teeth get the attention they need, leading you to a more comfortable and pain-free smile.
Treatment in the Office
If your teeth are damaged or decayed, there are several restorative options available, ranging from simple fillings to more complex procedures like crowns. For worn-down enamel, while some treatments can be done at home, there are also effective in-office treatments you can explore. We’ll go over all your options together, and you’ll have the final say on what feels right for you.
Personalized Advice
As you can see, tooth sensitivity can have many different causes. After your dental exam, your dentist will help pinpoint the exact issue. From there, we’ll provide you with tailored tips and tricks to strengthen your enamel at home and prevent future tooth decay. Your dental health is our priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way!
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
Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and brush twice daily with desensitizing toothpaste, gently cleaning along the gumline. Floss and rinse with a fluoridated mouthwash, and avoid acidic and sweet foods, especially before bed. If you grind your teeth, practice relaxation techniques. Ultimately, visit your dentist to identify the underlying cause.
Improving your dental hygiene can sometimes reduce sensitivity, as keeping teeth clean helps enamel recover. Fluoride treatments can aid this process, but remember that dental pain indicates a problem that needs investigation. Severe enamel damage may expose dentin, increasing the risk of infection.
Stress can indirectly lead to tooth sensitivity by causing neglect of oral care, increased consumption of sweet or acidic foods, and teeth grinding—often occurring unconsciously during sleep.
Certain foods can contribute to tooth sensitivity by wearing down enamel or promoting bacterial growth that leads to acid production. Acidic foods like coffee, wine, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar are major culprits, as are sweet items such as chocolate, jams, caramel, hard candies, and ice cream. Simple starches, including donuts, cake, bread, and chips, can also be problematic. Additionally, hard foods like ice, hard candies, and fruits with pits can risk damaging teeth. While you don’t have to eliminate these foods entirely, practicing moderation and maintaining a good oral hygiene routine—especially before bed—can help protect your teeth.
To help manage tooth sensitivity, focus on low-acid and low-sugar foods and beverages. High-fibre foods and dairy products are excellent choices, as they promote saliva production. Aim for a nutritious, varied diet rich in protein and calcium. Here are some foods to enjoy:
- Drinks: Water, green tea, and black tea.
- Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery, carrot sticks, and apple slices. Cheese is also a great option.
- Meals: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, and a classic meat-and-potato dish served with vegetables.
- Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta with berries, and applesauce.
- Incorporating these foods can support your dental health while being gentle on sensitive teeth.
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