The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth pain occurs when the nerves in your teeth become irritated. Normally, our teeth are protected by a layer of enamel. Beneath the enamel is dentin, and at the center of the tooth is the pulp, which contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. If the enamel becomes too thin or is damaged, the dentin may be exposed, and the nerve is no longer protected. Tooth sensitivity is commonly caused by factors 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.
- Using professional dental tools at home.
- Health conditions such as 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 teeth whitening products.
The Many Ways That Tooth Enamel Can Become Damaged:
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
The first and most important step is to see your dentist after experiencing dental pain or discomfort. We can rule out other potential causes of your tooth pain and recommend treatments for any damage or decay we detect. With a formal diagnosis, you can feel confident knowing you’re on the right track. Let’s break the process down:
Figure Out the Underlying Cause
During your examination, we will ask you to describe the sensitivity and how often it happens. You may need new X-rays, and the dentist will closely examine your teeth and gums. Additional tests, like the tap test or cold test, may help in your diagnosis.
Treatment in the Office
Teeth that are damaged or decayed can be treated with restorative options ranging from a simple filling to more complex procedures like crowns. For worn down enamel, treatments can be done at home, but in office treatments may also be available. We will discuss all options with you, and you’ll make the final decision.
Personalized Advice
Since there are many different causes of tooth sensitivity, after your dental exam, your dentist will narrow down the cause and offer advice tailored to your needs. We’ll provide you with 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
Start by using a toothbrush with soft bristles. Brush twice a day with desensitizing toothpaste and gently clean along the gumline. Floss and rinse with a fluoride mouthwash. Avoid acidic and sweet foods and drinks, like coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice, especially before bed. If you grind or clench your teeth, try practicing mindfulness or other relaxation techniques to give your jaw a break. To stop sensitive tooth pain for good, you will need to see the dentist so we can identify the cause once and for all.
In some cases, improving your dental hygiene can stop tooth sensitivity. When kept clean enough to prevent further erosion and decay, your enamel can actually heal. Fluoride treatments help this process. However, tooth pain is a signal that something is wrong and needs to be investigated. If your enamel has been severely damaged or decayed, exposing the dentin, you may be at risk of infection or an abscess.
Stress can indirectly lead to tooth sensitivity. People under stress may neglect their oral care, eat more sugary or acidic foods, or smoke more. Stress can also cause people to grind or clench their teeth, sometimes while they sleep without even realizing it.
Acidic foods wear down enamel. Sweet and starchy foods feed the bacteria in your mouth, which produce an acidic byproduct that weakens enamel. Hard foods can also wear away enamel or cause tooth damage.
- Acidic foods: Coffee, wine, fruit juice, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar.
- Sweet foods: Chocolate, jams, caramel, sugar, hard candies, ice cream, and especially juice and soda.
- Simple starches: Donuts, cake, bread, chips, crackers, and cookies.
- Hard foods: Chewing on ice, hard candies, or foods with pits like popcorn, cherries, and olives.
This doesn’t mean you need to avoid all these foods. Just practice moderation and clean your teeth routinely, especially before bed.
Focus on low acid, low sugar foods and drinks. High fiber foods are excellent for your teeth, and dairy promotes saliva production, which helps protect enamel. Aim for a nutritious, balanced diet with plenty of protein and calcium. Here are some foods you can enjoy:
- Drinks: Water, green tea, black tea.
- Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery, carrot sticks, apple slices, cheese.
- Meals: Stir fries, salads, wraps, meat and potatoes with veggies.
- Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta, berries, applesauce.
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