The Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the nerves within your teeth become irritated, often due to the erosion of the protective enamel layer. Beneath the enamel lies the dentin, and at the centre is the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When enamel thins or is breached, the nerve becomes exposed and unprotected, leading to sensitivity.
- Acidic Foods and Drinks: Consuming acidic items, especially before bedtime, can wear down enamel.
- Neglecting Oral Hygiene: Skipping flossing or brushing can lead to plaque buildup and enamel erosion.
- Aggressive Brushing: Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too vigorously can damage enamel.
- Improper Use of Dental Tools: Attempting to use professional dental tools at home may cause harm.
- Health Conditions: Issues like bulimia or acid reflux can expose teeth to harmful stomach acids.
- Gum Disease: Untreated gum disease and recession can lead to sensitivity.
- Cracked or Chipped Teeth: Damage can expose sensitive areas of the tooth.
- Dental Cavities: Untreated cavities can result in increased sensitivity.
- Tobacco and Vaping: Using these products can affect oral health.
- Bruxism: Grinding or clenching teeth can wear down enamel.
- Overusing Whitening Products: Excessive use can lead to sensitivity.
Common causes of enamel damage include:
If you experience tooth sensitivity, it’s important to consult with a dentist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, the first step is to visit your dentist. They can help identify the underlying cause of your discomfort and recommend appropriate treatments for any damage or decay. Here’s how the process typically works:
Identify the Underlying Cause
Your dentist will ask you to describe your sensitivity, including when it occurs and its severity. They may perform an examination, take new X-rays, and conduct diagnostic tests such as a tap test or cold test to pinpoint the issue.
In-Office Treatment
Depending on the diagnosis, there are various restorative options available. For damaged or decayed teeth, treatments may range from fillings to more complex procedures like crowns. If your enamel is worn down, there may be both in-office and at-home treatment options. Your dentist will discuss all possibilities with you, allowing you to make an informed decision.
Personalized Advice
Since many factors can contribute to tooth sensitivity, your dentist will provide tailored recommendations based on your specific needs. This may include tips on strengthening your enamel and preventing future tooth decay. By seeking professional help, you can address sensitivity effectively and regain confidence in your smile.
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
To alleviate sensitive teeth, start by switching to a soft-bristle toothbrush and brushing gently along the gumline twice daily with desensitizing toothpaste. Don’t forget to floss and use a fluoridated mouthwash. It’s wise to avoid acidic and sugary foods and drinks, like coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice, especially before bedtime. If you notice you’re clenching or grinding your teeth, consider practicing mindfulness or relaxation techniques to relieve jaw tension. However, to effectively address sensitive teeth pain, it’s essential to see your dentist to determine the underlying cause.
In some instances, improving your dental hygiene can reduce tooth sensitivity. By maintaining good oral care and preventing further erosion and decay, your enamel can recover. Fluoride treatments can significantly aid this healing process. However, keep in mind that dental pain usually indicates an underlying issue that needs attention. If enamel damage exposes the dentin, there may be a risk of infection or abscess, necessitating professional evaluation and treatment.
Yes, stress can indirectly contribute to tooth sensitivity. When individuals are under stress, they may neglect their oral hygiene routines, indulge in sugary or acidic foods, or increase their smoking habits. Additionally, stress often leads to teeth grinding or clenching, which can wear down enamel and cause sensitivity. Many people grind their teeth at night without even being aware of it, further exacerbating the issue. Addressing stress through relaxation techniques and maintaining good oral care can help alleviate sensitivity related to stress.
Certain foods can contribute to tooth sensitivity by wearing down enamel or feeding bacteria that produce harmful acids.
- Acidic Foods: Items like coffee, wine, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar can erode enamel.
- Sweet Foods: Treats such as chocolate, jams, jellies, caramel, hard candies, and ice cream, particularly sugary drinks like juice and soda, can promote bacterial growth and acid production.
- Simple Starches: Foods like donuts, cake, bread, potato chips, crackers, and cookies can also lead to sensitivity.
- Hard Foods: Chewing ice, hard candies, or foods with pits or hard kernels (like popcorn, cherries, and olives) can risk damaging teeth.
Here are the main culprits:
While it’s wise to be mindful of these foods, you don’t need to eliminate them entirely. Practicing moderation and maintaining good oral hygiene, especially before bedtime, can help protect your teeth from sensitivity.
To help reduce tooth sensitivity, focus on low-acid, low-sugar options.
- Drinks: Water, green tea, black tea
- Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery, carrot sticks, apple slices, cheese
- Meals: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, meat with veggies
- Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta with berries, applesauce
Here are some tooth-friendly foods:
These foods can support your dental health and minimize sensitivity.
What Our Patients Are Saying
- Video testimonials
- Google reviews
Kids Love Newcastle Dental
Very Happy With The Staff And The Office
Noticeably Whiter Teeth
