The Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is the sharp, uncomfortable pain that occurs when your teeth react to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods. It happens when the nerves inside your teeth become irritated, often due to enamel erosion. Beneath the enamel lies dentin, and at the core of the tooth is the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When enamel wears down or gets damaged, these nerves become exposed, leading to sensitivity and discomfort.
What Causes Enamel Damage and Tooth Sensitivity? Enamel erosion can make your teeth more sensitive and vulnerable to pain. Here are some common culprits:
- Acidic Foods and Drinks: Regular consumption of citrus fruits, soda, or acidic beverages, especially before bed, can weaken enamel over time.
- Skipping Dental Care: Inconsistent flossing and poor oral hygiene can increase plaque buildup, leading to enamel damage and sensitivity.
- Brushing Too Hard: Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing aggressively can gradually wear down enamel.
- DIY Dental Tools: Attempting to use professional dental tools at home can cause unintended damage to enamel and gums.
- Health Issues: Conditions like acid reflux or bulimia expose teeth to stomach acid, accelerating enamel erosion.
- Gum Disease: Untreated gum disease and receding gums can expose the sensitive roots of your teeth, leading to discomfort.
- Dental Damage: Cracks, chips, or untreated cavities can leave nerves exposed, increasing sensitivity.
- Tobacco and Cannabis Use: Smoking, vaping, or using other tobacco products can contribute to enamel erosion and gum recession.
- Teeth Grinding: Habitual grinding or clenching can wear down enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to pain.
- Overusing Whitening Products: Excessive use of whitening treatments can strip away protective layers, leading to increased sensitivity.
Being mindful of these factors and making small changes to your routine can help protect your enamel and reduce tooth sensitivity.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, the most important step is to visit your dentist. They can identify any underlying issues and recommend the best treatment options. Here’s what to expect:
Identify the Underlying Cause
Your dentist will begin by asking about your symptoms and how often they occur. To get a clearer picture, they may take X-rays and perform diagnostic tests like a tap test or cold test. These steps help pinpoint the exact cause of your sensitivity, ensuring you receive the right care for a more comfortable, pain-free smile.
Treatment in the Office
If damage or decay is found, restorative treatments such as fillings or crowns may be needed. For worn-down enamel, professional in-office treatments can help rebuild and protect your teeth. Your dentist will review all available options with you, allowing you to choose the treatment that feels right for your needs.
Personalized Advice
Since tooth sensitivity has multiple causes, your dentist will provide a customized plan based on your exam results. They’ll offer expert advice on strengthening your enamel at home and preventing further issues. Your dental health is a 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 daily and rinse with a fluoridated mouthwash to strengthen enamel. Avoid acidic and sweet foods, especially before bed, and if you grind your teeth, try relaxation techniques. Ultimately, visiting your dentist is the best way to identify and treat the root cause of sensitivity.
Improving your dental hygiene can sometimes reduce sensitivity, as keeping teeth clean helps enamel recover. Fluoride treatments can aid in this process, but dental pain often signals a problem that requires professional evaluation. Severe enamel damage may expose dentin, increasing the risk of infection.
Yes, stress can indirectly lead to tooth sensitivity by causing neglect of oral care, increased consumption of sweet or acidic foods, and unconscious teeth grinding, particularly during sleep.
Certain foods contribute to sensitivity by wearing down enamel or increasing acid production. Acidic foods like coffee, wine, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar can weaken enamel, while sugary items such as chocolate, jams, caramel, hard candies, and ice cream promote bacterial growth. 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 these foods don’t have to be eliminated, moderation and good oral hygiene—especially before bed—help protect your teeth.
To manage sensitivity, focus on low-acid and low-sugar foods that promote enamel health. High-fibre foods and dairy products encourage saliva production, which helps protect teeth. A balanced diet rich in protein and calcium supports strong enamel.
- Drinks: Water, green tea, and black tea.
- Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery, carrot sticks, apple slices, and cheese.
- Meals: Stir-fry, salads, wraps, and classic meat-and-potato dishes with vegetables.
- Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta with berries, and applesauce.
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