The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
To put it simply, sensitivity happens when the nerves in your teeth are exposed or irritated. Normally, your enamel protects the inner layers of your teeth. Beneath the enamel is dentin, and at the center is the pulp, which contains connective tissue, blood vessels, and the nerve. When enamel becomes thin or damaged, dentin is exposed, and pain follows. This condition can be triggered by many different habits or health issues.
- Frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks
- Skipping daily oral hygiene habits like flossing
- Brushing too aggressively or using a hard bristled brush
- Using sharp dental tools at home
- Health conditions like acid reflux or bulimia
- Gum recession from untreated gum disease
- Cracks, chips, or cavities in the teeth
- Use of tobacco, cannabis, or vaping
- Tooth grinding or clenching
- Overuse of whitening products
How enamel becomes damaged:
What to do if your teeth are sensitive
The most important step is to book a dental exam. A proper diagnosis is key to understanding the cause of the sensitivity and identifying the best course of action.
Find the cause
We will begin with a full dental exam. You may need updated Xrays and a few in office tests to pinpoint the issue. We will also ask about your symptoms and their triggers to better understand the severity and pattern.
Treatment in the dental office
Once we determine the source of your sensitivity, we can explore a number of in office solutions. This may include fluoride treatments to rebuild enamel, fillings to restore decayed areas, or crowns if the damage is more extensive. We will talk you through all the options so you can choose the one that suits you best.
Tailored advice for long term care
At our Dental Office in Brantford, we understand that no two smiles are the same. After your exam, your dentist will offer practical tips tailored to your lifestyle and oral health. These changes can help rebuild your enamel and prevent future sensitivity.
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 bristled toothbrush and use a desensitizing toothpaste. Be gentle along the gumline and avoid acidic or sweet foods before bed. Mouthwash with fluoride helps strengthen enamel. If you clench or grind your teeth, try mindfulness exercises or relaxation techniques. And above all, visit your dentist to rule out underlying causes.
Sometimes. Improving your home care and adding fluoride can support natural enamel repair. However, any ongoing discomfort should be assessed by a dentist to rule out decay, infection, or other serious issues.
Yes, indirectly. Stress often leads to poor oral care habits or increased clenching and grinding. All of these factors contribute to enamel wear and heightened sensitivity.
Foods high in acid or sugar are the biggest culprits. Acid wears down enamel while sugar feeds bacteria that produce enamel damaging acids. Be careful with hard foods too, as they can physically damage teeth.
Examples include:
Acidic: coffee, wine, juice, soda, citrus fruits, pickles
Sweet: candy, jam, chocolate, ice cream
Starches: cake, cookies, chips, crackers
Hard foods: popcorn, raw veggies, nuts with pits
Opt for low acid, low sugar options. Water, green tea, dairy products, and high fibre snacks like apples, celery, and carrots are great for your enamel. A balanced diet with protein and calcium also helps strengthen your teeth.
Google Verified Patient Reviews
