The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth pain occurs when the nerves in your teeth become irritated. Normally, your teeth are covered with a protective layer of enamel. Beneath the enamel is dentin, and at the core of the tooth is the pulp, which contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and the nerve. When enamel becomes thin or is breached, exposing the dentin, the nerve is left unprotected. Tooth sensitivity is often caused by practices or conditions that erode or damage tooth enamel.
- Drinking or eating acidic foods and beverages, especially before bed
- Skipping routine dental care, including flossing
- Brushing aggressively or using a hard toothbrush
- Using 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 when left untreated
- Using tobacco products, cannabis, or vaping
- Grinding or clenching teeth
- Overuse of 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 tooth pain is to see a dentist. This helps rule out any underlying causes and allows us to recommend treatments for any damage or decay found during your appointment. A formal diagnosis ensures you’re taking the right steps forward. Here’s the process:
Figure Out the Underlying Cause
We will not make assumptions. During your examination, you will describe the sensitivity and how often it occurs. You may need new X rays, and the dentist will closely examine your teeth and gums. Other tests, such as the tap test or cold test, may help with your diagnosis.
Treatment in the Office
Damaged or decayed teeth can be treated with various restorative options, ranging from simple fillings 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 will discuss all your options with you, and you will have the final say.
Personalized Advice
As you can see, there are many potential causes of tooth sensitivity. After your dental exam, the dentist will narrow down the specific cause for you. We will provide tailored tips and tricks 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
Start by switching to a toothbrush with soft bristles. Brush twice a day with desensitizing toothpaste and clean gently along the gumline. Floss and use 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, try practicing mindfulness or relaxation techniques to give your jaw a break. To stop sensitive teeth pain for good, you will need to visit the dentist for a full diagnosis and treatment plan.
In some cases, improving your dental hygiene at home can stop tooth sensitivity. When the enamel is kept clean enough to prevent further erosion and decay, it can heal. Fluoride treatment greatly aids this process. However, dental pain signals that something is wrong and should be investigated. If your enamel is so damaged or decayed that the dentin is exposed, you may risk an infection or abscess.
While stress does not directly cause tooth sensitivity, it can contribute. People who are stressed may neglect their dental care, consume more acidic or sweet foods, or smoke more. Stress can also lead to teeth grinding or clenching, sometimes while asleep without even realizing it.
Acidic foods wear down enamel. Sweet and starchy foods feed the bacteria in your mouth, which produces acidic byproducts that erode enamel. Hard foods can also wear away enamel or cause damage to teeth.
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Acidic Foods:
- Coffee, wine, and other alcohols
- Fruit juices and fruits (especially citrus)
- Soda, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar
- Chocolate, jams, jellies, caramel, sugar
- Hard candies, ice cream, juice, and soda
- Donuts, cake, bread, chips, crackers, and cookies
- Chewing ice, hard candies, or foods with pits or hard kernels like popcorn, cherries, and olives
Sweet Foods:
Simple Starches:
Hard Foods:
This does not mean you need to avoid all these foods. Just practice moderation and clean your teeth regularly, especially before bed.
For better tooth health, choose low acid and low sugar options. High fiber foods are excellent for your teeth, and dairy promotes saliva production. A nutritious, balanced diet with plenty of protein and calcium is best for your teeth.
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Drinks:
- Water, green tea, black tea
- Raisins, nuts, celery, carrot sticks, apple slices, cheese
- Stir fries, salads, wraps, meat and potatoes with veggies
- Yogurt, ricotta with berries, apple sauce
Snacks:
Meals:
Desserts:
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