The Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Sensitivity
To get right to the point, tooth pain happens when the nerves in your teeth become irritated. Normally, our teeth are covered in a protective layer of enamel. On the inside, there is a layer of material called dentin and then the pulp at the core of the tooth which is filled with connective tissue, blood vessels and the nerve of the tooth. If enamel becomes too thin or there’s a breach exposing the dentin, the nerve is no longer protected. Tooth sensitivity is most commonly caused by any number of practices or conditions that erode or damage tooth enamel.
The many ways that tooth enamel can become damaged:
- Drinking or eating acidic foods and beverages– especially before bed.
- Skipping routine tooth care including flossing!
- Brushing aggressively or using a hard toothbrush.
- Attempting to use professional dental tools at home.
- Health issues (like bulimia or acid reflux) which expose teeth to stomach acid.
- Untreated gum disease and gum recession.
- Damaged, cracked or chipped teeth.
- Dental cavities (especially if left untreated).
- Using tobacco products, cannabis products or vaping.
- Grinding or clenching your teeth.
- Overuse of some teeth whitening products.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
Following any instance of dental pain or discomfort, the initial and crucial course of action is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. This step allows us to eliminate potential alternative sources of your toothache and propose appropriate treatments for any identified damage or decay. Armed with an official diagnosis, you can proceed with assurance, knowing you’re on the correct path. Let’s now delve into the comprehensive breakdown of the entire process:
Figure out the underlying cause
We won’t jump to conclusions. Throughout your examination, you’ll be requested to explain the nature of the sensitivity and its frequency. There might be a need for updated X-rays, and your dentist will conduct a thorough inspection of your teeth and gums. Additional diagnostic evaluations, such as the tap test or cold test, could provide valuable insights for your diagnosis.
Treatment in the office
Teeth afflicted by damage or decay can be addressed through various restorative solutions, ranging from common fillings to more intricate procedures like crowns. In instances of enamel erosion, there could be home-based remedies, but we also offer in-office treatments that you can consider. We’ll thoroughly explore all potential options with you, ensuring you have the ultimate say in determining the best course of action.
Personalized advice
As evident from the information provided, there exists a wide range of potential factors contributing to tooth sensitivity. Following the conclusion of your dental examination, your dentist will be equipped to pinpoint the specific cause for you. We’re poised to provide personalized advice and strategies to bolster your enamel at home, thereby effectively thwarting prospective 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
Swap out your toothbrush for one equipped with gentle bristles. Maintain a twice-daily brushing routine using desensitizing toothpaste, and pay particular attention to the delicate gumline. Complement your oral care by flossing and using a fluoridated mouthwash. Steer clear of acidic and sugary fare such as coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juices, especially before bedtime. If you find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, consider embracing mindfulness or relaxation techniques to alleviate strain on your jaw. For a lasting solution to sensitive teeth discomfort, it’s imperative to consult your dentist. Through this, we can definitively identify the root cause and devise a comprehensive plan for lasting relief.
Enhancing your at-home dental hygiene routine can effectively halt tooth sensitivity in certain instances. By maintaining a level of cleanliness that forestalls further erosion and decay, your enamel possesses the potential for self-healing. Fluoride treatment significantly aids in this process. However, it’s important to note that dental discomfort functions as a natural signal that an issue requires attention and exploration. Should your enamel be compromised to the extent that dentin becomes exposed, there’s a potential vulnerability to infection or abscess formation that needs consideration
Stress can indirectly contribute to tooth sensitivity. Heightened stress levels often result in the neglect of regular oral care, increased consumption of sugary or acidic foods, and elevated smoking habits. Additionally, stress can trigger teeth grinding or clenching. In some cases, these habits occur during sleep without the individual’s awareness.
Dental enamel erosion can be triggered by acids present in various foods. Consuming sugary and starchy items contributes to bacterial growth in your mouth, resulting in the production of acidic byproducts that erode enamel. Additionally, hard foods can also compromise enamel integrity or even risk damaging teeth. Acidic foods such as coffee, wine, alcohol, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar, along with sweet foods like chocolate, jams, caramel, and sugary treats, can contribute to enamel wear. Simple starches like bread, cake, chips, and cookies, as well as hard foods such as ice, candies, and items with pits or kernels like cherries and olives, also have an impact. While avoiding these foods isn’t necessary, moderation and consistent oral hygiene practices, especially before bedtime, can help mitigate their effects on your enamel.
A dental professional will usually diagnose tooth sensitivity based on your symptoms and a clinical exam. They may use tests to determine the cause, such as tapping on the teeth or taking X-rays.
In many cases, tooth sensitivity can be treated effectively, and you may experience relief after treatment. However, the outcome can vary depending on the underlying cause.
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