The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth pain occurs when the nerves inside your teeth become irritated. Teeth are normally covered by a protective layer called 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. If enamel thins or becomes damaged, exposing dentin, the nerve loses protection. Tooth sensitivity is usually caused by practices or conditions that erode or harm tooth enamel.
- Drinking or eating acidic foods and drinks, especially before bed
- Skipping regular tooth care like flossing
- Brushing too hard or using a hard toothbrush
- Trying to use professional dental tools at home
- Health issues such as bulimia or acid reflux exposing teeth to stomach acid
- Untreated gum disease and gum recession
- Cracked, chipped, or damaged teeth
- Dental cavities, especially untreated ones
- Use of tobacco, cannabis products, or vaping
- Grinding or clenching teeth
- Overuse of some teeth whitening products
How tooth enamel can become damaged:
For professional evaluation and care, contact your Mississauga Dentist to treat and manage tooth sensitivity effectively.
What can you do about sensitive teeth?
The first and most important step when experiencing dental pain or discomfort is to see a dentist. We can rule out other causes of tooth pain and recommend treatments for any damage or decay found. With a clear diagnosis, you can be confident about the next steps. Here is how the process works:
Figure out the underlying cause
We do not assume anything. During your exam, you will describe your sensitivity and how often it happens. You may need new X rays, and the dentist will carefully examine your teeth and gums. Tests like tapping or cold stimulation may help with diagnosis.
Treatment in the office
Damaged or decayed teeth can be treated with options ranging from fillings to crowns. For worn enamel, home care may help, but we also offer in office treatments. We will discuss all options with you, and you will make the final decision.
Personalized advice
Because many causes can lead to tooth sensitivity, your dentist will narrow it down during your exam. We will provide 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. Brush twice daily using desensitizing toothpaste, gently cleaning along the gumline. Floss regularly and rinse with fluoridated mouthwash. Avoid acidic and sweet foods and drinks like coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice, especially before bed. If you notice clenching or grinding, try mindfulness or relaxation techniques to ease your jaw. For lasting relief, visit a dentist to find and treat the cause.
In some cases, improved oral hygiene can stop sensitivity. When enamel is kept clean to prevent erosion and decay, it can repair itself. Fluoride treatments greatly assist this process. However, dental pain signals a problem and should be checked. If enamel is severely damaged, exposing dentin, there is risk of infection.
Stress can indirectly cause sensitivity. Stressed people often neglect oral care, eat more sugary or acidic foods, or smoke more. Stress may also cause unconscious teeth grinding or clenching, sometimes during sleep.
Acidic foods wear down enamel. Sweet and starchy foods feed bacteria that produce acids damaging enamel. Hard foods can wear enamel or risk tooth damage. Examples include:
- Acidic foods: Coffee, wine, fruit juice, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, vinegar
- Sweet foods: Chocolate, jams, caramel, sugar, hard candies, ice cream, juice, soda
- Starchy foods: Donuts, cake, bread, potato chips, crackers, cookies
- Hard foods: Ice, hard candies, popcorn, cherries, olives
Avoiding these entirely is unnecessary, but practice moderation and maintain good oral hygiene.
Choose low acid, low sugar drinks, snacks, and meals. High fibre foods support oral health, and dairy products stimulate saliva production. Enjoy a balanced diet rich in protein and calcium, such as:
- Drinks: Water, green tea, black tea
- Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery sticks, carrot sticks, apple slices, cheese
- Meals: Stir fries, salads, wraps, meat and potatoes with vegetables
- Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta with berries, applesauce
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