The Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Sensitivity
The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth pain occurs when the nerves in your teeth become irritated. Normally, our teeth are covered in a protective layer of enamel. Beneath this is a layer called dentin, and at the core of the tooth is the pulp, which contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and the nerve of the tooth. When enamel becomes too thin or there’s a breach exposing the dentin, the nerve is no longer protected. Tooth sensitivity is most commonly caused by various practices or conditions that erode or damage tooth enamel.
- Drinking or eating acidic foods and beverages, especially before bed.
- Skipping routine tooth care, including flossing.
- Brushing aggressively or using a hard toothbrush.
- Attempting to use professional dental tools at home.
- Health issues (like bulimia or acid reflux) that expose teeth to stomach acid.
- Untreated gum disease and gum recession.
- Damaged, cracked, or chipped teeth.
- Dental cavities, especially if left untreated.
- Using tobacco products, cannabis products, or vaping.
- Grinding or clenching your teeth.
- Overuse of some teeth whitening products.
The Many Ways Tooth Enamel Can Become Damaged:
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
The first and most important step after experiencing dental pain or discomfort is to see the dentist. We can rule out any underlying causes of your tooth pain and recommend treatments for any damage or decay detected during your appointment. With a formal diagnosis, you can feel confident that you’re moving in the right direction. Let’s break down the process:
Figure Out the Underlying Cause
We won’t make any assumptions. During your examination, you will be asked to describe the sensitivity and how often it occurs. You may require new X rays, and the Dentist in North York, ON will closely examine your teeth and gums. Additional diagnostic tests, like the tap test or cold test, may be helpful.
Treatment in the Office
Damaged or decayed teeth can be treated with a number of restorative options, ranging from something as simple as a filling to more complex procedures like crowns. For worn down enamel, you may be able to treat it at home, but in office treatments may also be available. We’ll discuss all your options, and you will have the final say in your treatment plan.
Personalized Advice
As you’ve seen, there are many potential causes of tooth sensitivity. After completing a dental exam, your dentist will narrow down the cause of your discomfort. We’ll provide you with tips and tricks tailored specifically to your needs to help strengthen your enamel at home and prevent future tooth decay.
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
Switch to a toothbrush with soft bristles. Brush twice a day with desensitizing toothpaste, being gentle along the gumline. Floss and rinse with a fluoridated mouthwash. Avoid acidic and sweet foods and drinks like coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice, especially before bed. If you notice yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques to give your jaw a break. To stop sensitive teeth pain for good, visit the dentist so we can determine the underlying cause.
In some cases, improving your at home dental hygiene can stop tooth sensitivity. When teeth are clean enough to prevent further erosion and decay, your enamel can actually heal. Fluoride treatment can help accelerate this process. However, dental pain is a sign that something is wrong and needs to be investigated. If your enamel is so damaged that the dentin is exposed, you may risk infection or an abscess.
Indirectly, stress can contribute to tooth sensitivity. People under stress often neglect their routine oral care, indulge in sugary or acidic foods, or smoke more. Stress can also lead to grinding or clenching teeth, which can cause or worsen sensitivity. Sometimes, people grind their teeth while asleep without even realizing it.
Acids erode enamel. Sweet and starchy foods feed the bacteria in your mouth, which produces acidic byproducts that wear down enamel. Hard foods can also wear away enamel or risk damaging a tooth.
- Acidic Foods: Coffee, wine, fruit juices, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar.
- Sweet Foods: Chocolate, jams and jellies, caramel, sugar, hard candies, ice cream, and, of course, juice and soda!
- Simple Starches: Donuts, cake, bread, potato chips, crackers, and cookies.
- Hard Foods: Chewing ice, hard candies, or foods that may contain pits or hard kernels, such as popcorn, cherries, and olives.
Moderation is key. Be sure to clean your teeth routinely, especially before bed.
Stick to low acid, low sugar drinks, snacks, and meals. High fiber foods are excellent for your teeth, and dairy promotes saliva production. A nutritious diet with plenty of protein and calcium is ideal. Here are some foods that are good for sensitive teeth:
- Drinks: Water, green tea, and black tea.
- Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery, carrot sticks, and apple slices. Cheese.
- Supper: Stir fries, salads, wraps, meat, potatoes, and veggies.
- Dessert: Yogurt, ricotta cheese with berries, and applesauce.
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