
The Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity usually shows up when the nerves inside your teeth get irritated. Normally, your teeth are protected by a hard layer of enamel. Beneath that, you’ve got dentin, and at the core of the tooth is the pulp, which holds nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When enamel wears down or gets damaged, the dentin is exposed, leaving the nerves vulnerable. That’s when you start to feel those sharp sensations.
Common causes of tooth sensitivity include:
- Eating or drinking acidic foods and drinks, especially late at night.
- Skipping your brushing and flossing routine.
- Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with stiff bristles.
- Trying to use dental tools meant for professionals at home.
- Health issues like acid reflux or bulimia that expose teeth to stomach acid.
- Gum disease or receding gums that go untreated.
- Cracks, chips, or other damage to your teeth.
- Not treating cavities in time.
- Smoking, using cannabis, or vaping.
- Grinding or clenching your teeth, especially at night.
- Overdoing it with teeth whitening products.
Managing Sensitive Teeth
When tooth sensitivity or discomfort strikes, the first thing you should do is schedule a visit to the dentist. A thorough examination will help rule out other potential causes of your tooth pain, and any damage or decay can be treated accordingly. With a proper diagnosis, you’ll know exactly what steps to take next. Here’s how the process works:
Determining the Source
We take a comprehensive approach. You’ll be asked to describe when and how often the sensitivity occurs, and additional tests like X-rays may be needed. The dentist will also examine your teeth and gums closely. In some cases, further diagnostic tools, such as tapping or cold tests, might help identify the problem.
In-Office Treatment
Teeth that are damaged or have cavities can be restored using a variety of treatments. Simple options like fillings may suffice, or more involved procedures like crowns could be necessary. For worn enamel, we might recommend both in-office solutions and at-home care. We’ll guide you through all your options, ensuring you have the final say on your treatment plan.
Customized Care
Given the many potential reasons for tooth sensitivity, your dentist will provide recommendations tailored to your specific needs. They’ll offer practical advice to help strengthen your enamel at home and reduce future sensitivity, giving you a clear path toward better dental health.
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 soft-bristled toothbrush and brush twice daily with desensitizing toothpaste, ensuring you clean gently along the gumline. Don’t forget to floss regularly and use a fluoridated mouthwash. Limit acidic and sweet foods and drinks such as coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice, especially before bed. If you tend to clench or grind your teeth, try mindfulness or relaxation techniques to reduce jaw strain. For a long-term solution, visit your dentist to identify and treat the root cause of your sensitivity.
In some cases, improving your dental hygiene can reduce tooth sensitivity. Keeping your teeth clean can prevent further enamel erosion, and fluoride treatments can help rebuild and strengthen enamel. However, tooth pain often signals a problem that needs professional attention. If your enamel is significantly damaged, exposing the dentin, you may be at risk of infection or an abscess. It’s important to get it checked by a dentist.
Yes, stress can indirectly cause tooth sensitivity. When stressed, people may neglect their oral hygiene, eat more sugary or acidic foods, or smoke more often. Stress can also lead to grinding or clenching of the teeth, sometimes unconsciously during sleep. These behaviours can wear down enamel and increase sensitivity.
Certain foods can wear down your enamel, leading to sensitivity. Acidic foods like coffee, wine, fruit juice, and tomatoes can weaken enamel, while sweet and starchy foods like chocolate, caramel, donuts, and cookies feed bacteria that produce acids. Hard foods such as ice, hard candies, and items with pits or kernels, like popcorn and olives, can also cause damage. You don’t have to avoid these foods completely—just practice moderation and keep up with your dental hygiene, especially before bed.
To protect your teeth, choose foods and drinks that are low in acid and sugar. High-fibre foods and dairy products promote saliva production, which helps protect enamel. Aim for a balanced diet with plenty of protein and calcium. Here are some tooth-friendly choices:
- Drinks: Water, green tea, black tea.
- Snacks: Raisins and nuts, celery and carrot sticks, apple slices, cheese.
- Main Courses: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, meat and potatoes with a side of vegetables.
- Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta and berries, apple sauce.
Choosing these options can help support your dental health while still enjoying a nutritious and varied diet.
