That sharp, sudden jolt of pain when you sip hot coffee, bite into ice cream, or even just breathe cold air – if this sounds familiar, you’re likely experiencing tooth sensitivity. It’s a common issue, affecting a significant number of adults, but it’s not something you have to live with indefinitely.

Understanding why your teeth are sensitive is the first step to finding lasting relief, and your local Brampton dental experts at Smile Makers Dental Care are here to help.

Understanding Sensitive Teeth: What’s Happening?

At the core of your tooth is the pulp, containing nerves and blood vessels. Surrounding the pulp is dentin, a porous layer filled with microscopic tubules that lead directly to the nerves.

The outermost layer of the tooth visible above the gumline is enamel, the hardest substance in your body, which protects the dentin.

Below the gum line, the root is covered by cementum, a softer material.

Sensitive teeth, often called dentin hypersensitivity, occur when the protective layers (enamel or cementum) wear away or gums recede, exposing the underlying dentin.

When exposed, these tiny tubules in the dentin allow external stimuli – like hot, cold, sweet, or acidic substances, or even air – to reach the nerves in the pulp, causing that characteristic sharp, short-lived pain.

This is widely explained by the Hydrodynamic Theory of tooth sensitivity.

Common Causes of Teeth Sensitivity

Several factors can lead to the exposure of dentin:

• Gum Recession: Gums can pull away from the teeth due to periodontal (gum) disease, aggressive brushing, or genetics, exposing the root surface (covered by cementum, which wears away more easily than enamel).
• Enamel Erosion: Acidic foods and drinks (sodas, citrus fruits, sports drinks), teeth grinding (bruxism), or certain medical conditions can wear away the enamel, leaving the dentin vulnerable.
• Dental Problems: Cavities, chipped or fractured teeth, or worn-out fillings can expose the dentin or the tooth’s pulp. Even having a cracked tooth can cause sensitivity when pressure is applied.
• Aggressive Brushing: Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too forcefully can wear down enamel and cause gums to recede.
• Certain Dental Treatments: Teeth whitening procedures, professional cleanings, or recent dental work (like fillings or crowns) can sometimes cause temporary sensitivity.
• Abrasive Toothpaste: Toothpastes with rough ingredients designed to whiten or remove stain more aggressively can wear down enamel over time.

What Triggers the Pain? (Specific Triggers)

The discomfort of sensitive teeth is often triggered by:

• Hot foods and drinks
• Cold foods and drinks
• Cold air
• Sweet foods and drinks
• Acidic foods and drinks
• Brushing or flossing

Getting Relief: At-Home Solutions

When sensitivity strikes, you might seek immediate relief. Some temporary at-home options include:

• Warm Saltwater Rinse: Rinsing with warm salt water can sometimes offer temporary soothing effects, particularly if gum inflammation is a factor.
• Using Desensitizing Toothpaste: Many toothpastes are specially formulated to block the tubules in the dentin (containing ingredients like stannous fluoride or arginine) or to calm the nerves within the tooth (like potassium nitrate). Consistent use over a few weeks is usually needed to see significant results.

While these methods can help manage symptoms in the short term, they don’t address the underlying cause of your sensitivity.

When to See a Dentist (And Why It’s Crucial)?

Relying solely on home remedies or desensitizing toothpaste might mask a more serious problem.

Tooth sensitivity can be a warning sign of issues like a new cavity, a cracked tooth, gum disease, or a filling that needs replacement – all of which require professional attention.

Only a dentist can accurately diagnose the specific reason for your sensitivity.

Ignoring the pain and just treating the symptom can allow a potentially serious issue to worsen.

Diagnosing Sensitive Teeth at Smile Makers Dental Care

At Smile Makers Dental Care in Brampton, we take a patient-centric approach to understand your sensitive teeth.

Your appointment for sensitivity will typically involve:

• Detailed Discussion: We’ll talk about your symptoms, when the sensitivity started, what triggers it, your oral hygiene habits, and your diet.
• Comprehensive Examination: Dr. Seema Shetty will carefully examine your teeth and gums to look for signs of gum recession, enamel wear, cavities, cracks, or issues with existing fillings.
• Diagnostic Tests: We may use gentle tests, such as applying a mild air blast or a thermal stimulus to specific areas of your teeth, or tapping on teeth, to pinpoint the exact location and trigger of your sensitivity. X-rays may also be taken to check for cavities or other issues beneath the surface.

This thorough process allows us to accurately identify the root cause of your discomfort.

Professional Treatment Options Available at Smile Makers Dental Care

Once we’ve diagnosed the cause of your sensitive teeth, Dr. Shetty will recommend a personalized treatment plan.

Treatments at Smile Makers Dental Care might include:

• In-Office Fluoride Application: We can apply a fluoride varnish or gel to strengthen enamel and dentin and help block the exposed tubules.
• Dental Bonding or Sealants: For cases of exposed root surfaces due to gum recession, we may apply a bonding agent or sealant to cover the sensitive area.
• Treating Underlying Issues: If your sensitivity is caused by a cavity, crack, or worn filling, addressing that specific problem with a filling, crown, or other restorative procedure will eliminate the sensitivity.
• Gum Disease Treatment: If gum recession due to periodontal disease is the culprit, treating the gum disease is essential.
• Nightguards for Grinding: If teeth grinding is wearing down your enamel, a custom-fitted nightguard can protect your teeth.
• Addressing Aggressive Brushing: We provide guidance on proper brushing techniques and recommend appropriate toothbrushes to prevent further wear.

Preventing Teeth Sensitivity in the Future

Taking proactive steps can help prevent tooth sensitivity from returning:

• Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day and floss daily to prevent gum disease and maintain healthy enamel.
• Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Always use a soft-bristled brush and avoid brushing too hard.
• Use Fluoride Toothpaste: Choose a toothpaste containing fluoride to strengthen enamel.
• Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks: Reduce consumption of items that erode enamel. When you do consume them, rinse your mouth with water afterward.
• Address Teeth Grinding: If you grind your teeth, discuss options like a nightguard with Dr. Shetty.
• Regular Dental Check-ups and Cleanings: Visiting Smile Makers Dental Care routinely allows us to catch potential issues early and provide professional cleanings that don’t contribute to sensitivity.

Don’t Live with Pain: Schedule Your Appointment in Brampton

Sensitive teeth are more than just an annoyance; they can impact your quality of life and may signal an underlying dental issue that needs attention. You don’t have to endure the discomfort. Effective diagnosis and personalized treatment are available right here in Brampton. At Smile Makers Dental Care, Dr. Seema Shetty and our team are dedicated to providing the highest standard of care in a welcoming environment. We’ll help you understand the cause of your sensitivity and develop a plan to get you back to enjoying your favorite foods and drinks without discomfort.

Schedule your appointment with Smile Makers Dental Care today and take the first step towards lasting relief from sensitive teeth.

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FAQs

How long does tooth sensitivity last?

Sensitivity can be temporary, especially after certain dental procedures, or it can be chronic and persistent if the underlying cause (like gum recession or enamel erosion) isn’t addressed.

Can sensitive teeth be cured permanently?

In many cases, sensitive teeth can be effectively managed and often “cured” by identifying and treating the root cause. For example, addressing a cavity or placing a filling can eliminate the sensitivity caused by that cavity. Treating gum disease and recession can also significantly reduce or eliminate sensitivity.

Is sensitive toothpaste enough?

While desensitizing toothpaste can provide significant relief for many people, it’s often a temporary fix that only addresses the symptom. It does not treat underlying issues like cavities, cracks, or severe gum disease, which require professional dental intervention. Always see a dentist to determine the cause of your sensitivity.

Why are my teeth suddenly sensitive?

Sudden sensitivity can be caused by various factors, including a new cavity, a chipped or cracked tooth, a loose or damaged filling, enamel erosion from a recent dietary change or medical condition, or even brushing too hard or using a new, more abrasive toothpaste. Sudden sensitivity warrants a dental examination to rule out serious issues.