The Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Sensitivity
To get right to the point, tooth pain happens when the nerves in your teeth become irritated. Normally, our teeth are covered in a protective layer of enamel. On the inside, there is a layer of material called dentin and then the pulp at the core of the tooth which is filled with connective tissue, blood vessels and the nerve of the tooth. If 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 any number of practices or conditions that erode or damage tooth enamel.
The many ways that tooth enamel can become damaged:
- 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) which 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.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
The initial and crucial step following dental pain or discomfort is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. This visit is essential for excluding other potential causes of your toothache and for receiving recommendations on treating any identified damage or decay. By obtaining a formal diagnosis, you can proceed with confidence, knowing you are on the right path. Let’s now detail the entire process:
Figure out the underlying cause
We avoid making assumptions. Your examination will involve describing the sensitivity and its frequency. You might need new X-rays, and your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums. Additional diagnostic tests, such as the tap test or cold test, may be beneficial in determining your diagnosis.
Treatment in the office
Teeth that are damaged or decayed can be treated with a number of restorative options from something as common as a filling to more complex procedures such as crowns. For worn enamel, you might be able to address it at home, but there are also in-office treatments that could be an option. We will review all your options with you, and you have the final decision.
Personalized advice
As you’ve noticed, there are numerous potential causes of tooth sensitivity. After a dental exam, your dentist will be able to pinpoint the specific cause for you. We can provide you with personalized tips and tricks to 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
Replace your toothbrush with one that has soft bristles. Brush twice daily using desensitizing toothpaste, and be gentle when cleaning along the gumline. Remember to floss and rinse with a fluoridated mouthwash. Steer clear of acidic and sugary foods and drinks, such as coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice, especially before bedtime. If you find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, try mindfulness or relaxation techniques to give your jaw a rest. To permanently alleviate sensitive teeth pain, it’s essential to see the dentist so we can identify the root cause definitively.
Enhancing your dental hygiene routine at home can sometimes halt tooth sensitivity. By maintaining cleanliness to prevent further erosion and decay, your enamel can potentially heal. Fluoride treatment significantly aids in this process. However, dental pain serves as a natural warning sign that something requires attention and investigation. If your enamel has deteriorated to the point where the dentin is exposed, you could be susceptible to infection or an abscess.
Stress can indirectly contribute to tooth sensitivity. Individuals experiencing heightened stress levels often neglect their regular oral hygiene practices, consume more sugary or acidic foods, or increase smoking habits. Stress can also lead to teeth grinding or clenching, a habit that some individuals may do unconsciously, especially during sleep.
Acids in foods wear down enamel, while sweet and starchy foods feed mouth bacteria, leading to acidic byproducts that further erode enamel. Hard foods can also contribute to enamel wear and tooth damage. Examples of acidic foods include coffee, wine, fruit juice, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar. Sweet foods like chocolate, jams, jellies, caramel, sugar, hard candies, ice cream, and sugary drinks can also be harmful. Simple starches found in donuts, cake, bread, potato chips, crackers, and cookies can have a similar effect. Hard foods like ice, hard candies, and foods with pits or hard kernels (e.g., popcorn, cherries, olives) can also be damaging. While you don’t need to avoid these foods entirely, it’s important to consume them in moderation and maintain regular oral hygiene practices, particularly before bedtime.
It’s important to choose low-acid, low-sugar options for drinks, snacks, and meals. High-fiber foods are great for your teeth, as is dairy, which helps stimulate saliva production. Aim for a nutritious, diverse diet rich in protein and calcium. Here are some tooth-friendly foods and drinks you can enjoy:
Drinks: Water, green tea, black tea.
Snacks: Raisins and nuts, celery and carrot sticks, apple slices, cheese.
Meals: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, meat and potatoes with a side of veggies.
Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta and berries, applesauce.
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