The Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity happens when the nerves in your teeth become exposed and irritated. Normally, your teeth are protected by a hard layer of enamel. But when enamel wears away or gets damaged, the sensitive inner layers of the tooth, called dentin, are exposed, causing discomfort.
- Acidic foods and drinks (especially before bed)
- Skipping daily brushing or flossing
- Brushing too hard or using a hard toothbrush
- Health issues like acid reflux or bulimia
- Gum disease or gum recession
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Untreated cavities
- Tobacco or vaping products
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Overusing teeth whitening products
Common causes of tooth sensitivity include:
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, it’s a good idea to visit our dentist for treatment options that can provide relief and protect your teeth.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
If you’re dealing with tooth pain or sensitivity, the first step is to visit your dentist. We’ll help identify the underlying cause of your discomfort and recommend the best treatment options, whether it’s due to damage, decay, or something else. Here’s what to expect:
Figure Out the Underlying Cause
We’ll start by discussing your symptoms, including how often you experience sensitivity. During your exam, we may take new X-rays and use diagnostic tests like the tap test or cold test to pinpoint the issue.
Treatment in the Office
For damaged or decayed teeth, we offer a range of restorative treatments, from simple fillings to more complex procedures like crowns. If your enamel is worn down, we may recommend in-office treatments in addition to at-home care. You’ll have all the information to make the best decision for your smile.
Personalized Advice
There are many causes of tooth sensitivity, but after your exam, we’ll help narrow it down. Your dentist will provide personalized tips 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
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently along your gums with toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Make sure to floss and rinse with mouthwash that contains fluoride. Avoid foods and drinks that are too acidic or sweet like coffee, soda, or fruit juice, especially before bed. If you tend to clench or grind your teeth, try relaxing techniques to ease the pressure. To find out the cause of your pain and get proper treatment, visit your dentist.
In some cases, improving your brushing habits can help reduce sensitivity, and fluoride treatments can help rebuild your enamel. However, if your tooth pain is caused by serious damage, such as exposed tooth nerves, you’ll need to see a dentist to avoid infections or further damage.
Yes, stress can make tooth sensitivity worse. When stressed, you might forget to brush, eat unhealthy foods, or even grind your teeth at night, which can wear down your tooth enamel and cause pain.
Acidic foods like coffee, wine, citrus fruits, soda, and pickles can damage your tooth enamel. Sweet foods like chocolate or candy and hard foods like ice or hard candies can also cause tooth pain. Enjoy these in moderation, and be sure to brush your teeth before bed.
Choose foods that are low in acids and sugars. High-fiber foods and dairy (which helps keep your mouth healthy) are great choices. Here are some examples:
- Drinks: Water, green tea
- Snacks: Raisins, nuts, carrot sticks, cheese, apple slices
- Meals: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, meats with vegetables
- Dessert: Yogurt, berries, applesauce
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