The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the nerves in your teeth become irritated. Normally, your teeth are protected by a layer of enamel, which shields the dentin (the layer underneath). The pulp of the tooth, containing nerves and blood vessels, is at the core. When the enamel wears down or is compromised, the dentin and nerves become exposed, leading to sensitivity.
Common causes of tooth sensitivity include:
- Acidic foods and drinks: Consuming things like citrus fruits, soda, wine, or coffee, especially at night, can wear down enamel.
- Poor oral hygiene: Skipping regular brushing and flossing allows plaque to build up, leading to enamel erosion.
- Aggressive brushing: Using a hard toothbrush or brushing too roughly can strip away enamel.
- Improper use of dental tools: Trying professional dental tools at home can cause unintentional damage.
- Health conditions: Issues like acid reflux or bulimia can expose teeth to stomach acids.
- Gum disease and recession: Gum problems can expose the roots of your teeth, leading to discomfort.
- Cracked or chipped teeth: Physical damage to the tooth can create openings to the inner nerves.
- Cavities: Untreated cavities lead to enamel decay and exposure of sensitive areas.
- Tobacco use and vaping: These can increase the risk of gum disease and tooth wear.
- Teeth grinding or clenching: This habit can lead to enamel wear and root exposure.
- Excessive teeth whitening: Overuse of whitening products can make teeth more sensitive.
If you’re experiencing discomfort or notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek dental care. Identifying the root cause of your tooth sensitivity will help you find the best treatment to alleviate the pain.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
Experiencing tooth sensitivity can be uncomfortable, but the first step is to visit the dentist. This allows us to identify the cause of your discomfort and recommend effective treatments. Here’s how we approach managing sensitive teeth:
Identify the Underlying Cause
We’ll begin by understanding your specific symptoms. You’ll be asked to describe your sensitivity—when it occurs, and how often it happens. We may recommend additional X-rays to look for any damage or issues beneath the surface. Other diagnostic tests, like a tap test or cold test, may also be used to get a clearer picture.
Treatment in the Office
If your teeth are damaged or decayed, there are several treatment options available. Simple cases may only require a filling, while more extensive damage might need a crown or other restorative procedures. In cases of worn enamel, at-home treatments might be sufficient, but in-office procedures can also help restore the protective layer and ease sensitivity.
Personalized Advice
After evaluating your dental health, your dentist will provide personalized recommendations. We can suggest tips and techniques tailored to strengthening your enamel and preventing future sensitivity. Whether it’s adjusting your brushing habits, using desensitizing toothpaste, or applying fluoride treatments, we’ll provide the right plan to help manage your sensitivity at home.
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
To relieve sensitive teeth pain, start by switching to a toothbrush with soft bristles to avoid further irritation. Use a toothpaste formulated for sensitivity, and brush gently, focusing on the gumline. Floss daily and use a mouthwash with fluoride to help strengthen your enamel. Cut back on acidic and sugary foods and drinks such as coffee, soda, or citrus juices, especially before bed, as these can aggravate sensitivity. If you’re prone to grinding or clenching your teeth, practicing relaxation exercises can help relieve pressure on your teeth. However, for lasting relief, it’s essential to visit your dentist to identify the root cause and discuss the best treatment options.
In some cases, if the enamel isn’t severely worn or damaged, improving your dental hygiene can help prevent further erosion, allowing your tooth to heal over time. Fluoride treatments can aid in strengthening weakened enamel. However, if the enamel is severely damaged or decayed, the tooth may be at risk of infection, requiring professional treatment.
Yes, stress can indirectly contribute to tooth sensitivity. It may lead to habits like grinding or clenching your teeth, which can wear down enamel and increase sensitivity. Stress can also lead to poor oral care habits or unhealthy eating, which exacerbate the issue.
Certain foods and beverages can worsen tooth sensitivity:
- Acidic foods: Coffee, wine, fruit juices, citrus fruits, soda, pickles, and vinegar can erode enamel.
- Sweet foods: Sugary treats like chocolate, caramel, jams, hard candies, and ice cream contribute to enamel wear.
- Starches: Foods like chips, bread, and cookies can feed oral bacteria that produce harmful acids.
- Hard foods: Biting on ice, hard candies, or foods with pits can damage teeth and exacerbate sensitivity.
It’s not necessary to eliminate all of these from your diet, but moderation is key. Regular brushing, especially before bed, will help minimize their effects.
To help manage sensitivity, opt for low-acid, low-sugar foods that promote dental health:
- Drinks: Water, green tea, and black tea are excellent options.
- Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery, carrot sticks, apple slices, and cheese are beneficial for teeth.
- Meals: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, lean meats, potatoes, and vegetables support good oral health.
- Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta with berries, and applesauce provide nutrients without harming your teeth.
A balanced diet rich in calcium and protein supports tooth health and helps manage sensitivity.
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