The signs and symptoms of tooth sensitivity
Tooth pain happens when the nerves inside your teeth become irritated. Normally, teeth are covered by a protective layer called enamel. Beneath that is dentin, and at the core is the pulp containing connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. If the enamel thins or gets damaged, exposing the dentin, the nerves lose protection. Tooth sensitivity is most often caused by habits or conditions that wear down or damage enamel.
- Drinking or eating acidic foods and drinks, especially before bed
- Skipping routine dental care like flossing
- Brushing too hard or using a stiff toothbrush
- Using professional dental tools at home without training
- Health issues such as acid reflux or bulimia that expose teeth to stomach acid
- Untreated gum disease or gum recession
- Cracked, chipped, or damaged teeth
- Untreated dental cavities
- Use of tobacco, cannabis, or vaping products
- Grinding or clenching your teeth
- Overusing certain teeth whitening products
The many ways tooth enamel can be damaged:
If you want personalized care for tooth sensitivity, our Dental Office in Etobicoke offers expert diagnosis and treatment tailored to your needs.
What can you do about sensitive teeth?
The first step after feeling tooth pain is to see a dentist. We can rule out other causes and recommend treatment for any damage or decay. A formal diagnosis helps you feel confident about the best way forward. Here is how the process works:
Figure out the cause
During your exam, you will describe the sensitivity and how often it happens. You may need new X rays, and the dentist will closely inspect your teeth and gums. Other tests, like the tap test or cold test, may help with diagnosis.
Treatment in the office
Damaged or decayed teeth can be treated with fillings or more complex procedures like crowns. For worn enamel, home care may help but there are also treatments done in the office. We will explain all options and you will have the final say.
Personalized advice
Since tooth sensitivity has many possible causes, your dentist will narrow down the reason during your exam. You will get tips tailored to your needs to strengthen enamel at home and prevent future 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
Switch to a soft bristle toothbrush and brush twice daily with desensitizing toothpaste. Gently clean along the gumline, floss regularly, and use a fluoride mouthwash. Avoid acidic and sweet foods and drinks like coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice, especially before bedtime. If you clench or grind your teeth, try relaxation or mindfulness techniques to give your jaw a break. To stop sensitivity for good, visit the dentist to find and treat the cause.
In some cases, better oral hygiene can stop sensitivity. When teeth are clean enough to prevent more damage, enamel can repair itself with help from fluoride treatment. However, tooth pain means something is wrong and should be checked. If enamel is badly damaged and dentin is exposed, you risk infection or abscess.
Stress can indirectly cause sensitivity. Stressed people may neglect oral care, eat more sweets or acidic foods, or smoke more. Stress also leads to grinding or clenching teeth, often without realizing it.
Acids wear down enamel. Sweet and starchy foods feed bacteria that produce acids, wearing enamel. Hard foods may also damage enamel or teeth.
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Acidic foods: Coffee, wine, fruit juice, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, vinegar.
Sweet foods: Chocolate, jams, caramel, sugar, hard candy, ice cream, juice, soda.
Starchy foods: Donuts, cake, bread, chips, crackers, cookies.
Hard foods: Ice, hard candies, foods with pits or kernels like popcorn, cherries, olives.
This does not mean avoiding these foods completely. Moderation and good dental hygiene, especially before bed, are key.
Choose low acid and low sugar foods and drinks. High fibre foods are great for your teeth. Dairy products also help because they promote saliva production. Aim for a balanced diet with plenty of protein and calcium.
- Drinks: Water, green tea, black tea
- Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery sticks, carrot sticks, apple slices, cheese
- Meals: Stir fries, salads, wraps, meat with vegetables and potatoes
- Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta cheese with berries, applesauce
Foods you can enjoy:
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