The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity
To put it simply, tooth sensitivity is nerve pain. Underneath your tooth’s enamel is a layer called dentin, and beneath that lives the pulp, home to connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. When enamel wears down or a crack forms, dentin becomes exposed, allowing external stimuli to reach your nerves.
This is when you feel that unmistakable zap from cold water or sugary food. While it might seem like a minor annoyance, sensitivity often points to a deeper issue that deserves attention.
- Acidic foods and drinks, especially consumed at night
- Skipping regular brushing or flossing
- Brushing too hard or using a stiff-bristled toothbrush
- Trying to clean your own teeth with tools meant for professionals
- Chronic conditions like acid reflux or bulimia
- Untreated gum disease or gum recession
- Cracked, chipped, or decayed teeth
- Smoking, vaping, or frequent cannabis use
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Overuse of whitening products
Common causes of enamel damage include:
What can you do about sensitive teeth?
The most important first step is a professional dental evaluation. Sensitivity may stem from something simple, or something serious. A proper diagnosis helps us determine the root cause and recommend the right treatment plan.
If you’re looking for a Langley Dentist who takes a thorough, compassionate approach to treating sensitivity, you’re in the right place. We’ll help you take charge of your symptoms and prevent future discomfort, without overcomplicating the process.
Identify the cause
We begin with a thorough exam. You’ll describe your symptoms, and we’ll assess your enamel, gumline, and bite. We may take X-rays and perform additional tests, like the tap or cold test, to pinpoint the problem.
In-office treatment
Depending on what we find, you might need a restorative treatment such as:
- A dental filling for minor decay
- A crown for larger structural damage
- Desensitizing agents or fluoride treatments for worn enamel
We’ll walk you through all options, and you’ll always have the final say in your care.
Personalized home care advice
Once we know what’s going on, we’ll give you practical tips to protect and strengthen your enamel. That could mean switching up your brushing technique, cutting back on certain foods, or using a fluoride rinse at home.
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 brush and desensitizing toothpaste. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and avoid acidic or sugary foods, especially before bed. Use a fluoride mouthwash and take steps to reduce grinding or clenching. Ultimately, long-term relief starts with a dental visit.
Yes, in some cases. Early enamel erosion can be reversed with excellent home care and fluoride support. But if the dentin is already exposed or decay is present, the damage won’t reverse on its own, and a professional assessment is essential.
Indirectly, yes. Stress can lead to teeth grinding, jaw clenching, poor diet, or neglected oral hygiene, all of which contribute to enamel wear and sensitivity.
Acidic foods and sweets are the biggest offenders. These include:
- Acidic: citrus fruits, vinegar, soda, coffee, wine, tomatoes
- Sugary: candy, jam, juice, soft drinks, baked goods
- Starchy: bread, chips, cookies, crackers
- Hard: ice, popcorn, unpitted olives or cherries
You don’t need to avoid these entirely, just enjoy them in moderation and clean your teeth thoroughly after.
Opt for low-acid, low-sugar choices that strengthen enamel and support saliva production:
- Drinks: water, green or black tea
- Snacks: cheese, yogurt, nuts, apples, carrots
- Meals: stir-fries, lean meats, whole grains, cooked veggies
- Desserts: ricotta and berries, applesauce, plain yogurt
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