West Vancouver Dental: Tooth Sensitivity Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Wiki Article

Tooth sensitivity is a very common dental problem that affects people of all ages. It can feel like a sharp pain or sudden discomfort when you eat or drink something hot, cold, sweet, or even when you breathe in cold air. For some people, the pain is mild and short. For others, it can be constant and hard to ignore. At West Vancouver Dental, we see many patients who deal with sensitive teeth, and we understand how much it can affect daily life.

Our goal is not only to treat tooth sensitivity but also to help you understand why it happens and when it’s time to see a dentist. Knowing the cause is the first step toward lasting relief.

What Is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity happens when the protective enamel on your teeth becomes thin or damaged, or when your gums pull back and expose the tooth roots. Under the enamel is a layer called dentin. Dentin has tiny tubes that connect directly to the nerves inside your tooth. When dentin is exposed, heat, cold, or sweet foods can reach the nerve easily and cause pain.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Many different dental issues can lead to sensitive teeth. One common cause is teeth whitening. Whitening products often contain strong chemicals that can irritate the tooth nerves and temporarily weaken enamel, especially if they are used too often or incorrectly.

Cavities and tooth decay are another major cause. When decay creates holes in the enamel, the inner dentin becomes exposed. This allows food and drinks to trigger pain more easily. If cavities are not treated early, sensitivity can get worse over time.

Teeth grinding, also called bruxism, can wear down enamel and create small cracks in the teeth. These cracks expose sensitive areas and put stress on the nerves. Grinding often happens at night, and many people don’t realize they do it.

Dental infections can also cause sensitivity. When bacteria infect the tooth or gums, inflammation builds up and puts pressure on the nerves. Infections like abscesses can lead to severe pain and should be treated quickly.

Broken or worn fillings expose the inner layers of the tooth. This makes the tooth sensitive and also allows bacteria to enter, increasing the risk of further decay and infection.

Gum recession is another common cause. When gums pull back, the tooth roots are exposed. Roots do not have enamel, so they are very sensitive. Gum recession is often linked to aggressive brushing or gum disease.

How to Reduce Tooth Sensitivity at Home

If your sensitivity is mild, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce discomfort. Using a desensitizing toothpaste can help block pain signals from reaching the nerves. These toothpastes work best when used consistently.

Avoiding acidic foods and drinks like soda, citrus fruits, and energy drinks can help protect your enamel. Maintaining good oral hygiene is also important. Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily.

Brush gently and avoid scrubbing too hard, as aggressive brushing can damage enamel and gums. Using a fluoride mouthwash can help strengthen teeth and reduce sensitivity. If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can protect your enamel from further damage.

What Can a Dentist Do for Sensitive Teeth?

Many patients ask, what can a dentist do for sensitive teeth when home care is not enough. At West Vancouver Dental, we offer several effective treatment options depending on the cause of your sensitivity.

Fluoride treatments applied in the dental office can strengthen enamel and reduce pain. Bonding agents or dental sealants can be used to cover exposed dentin and protect the nerves. For patients with gum recession, a gum graft may be recommended to cover exposed roots.

If sensitivity is caused by deep decay or nerve damage, root canal therapy may be needed. This treatment removes the infected nerve tissue and relieves pain completely. In cases where a tooth is cracked or badly damaged, crowns, inlays, or onlays can restore strength and protect the tooth.

When to See a Dentist

If your tooth sensitivity lasts more than a few days, keeps getting worse, or interferes with eating and drinking, it’s time to see a dentist. Moderate to severe sensitivity usually does not go away on its own and may be a sign of a serious dental issue.

At West Vancouver Dental, we are here to help you feel comfortable and confident in your smile. If you are struggling with tooth sensitivity or pain, booking an appointment early can prevent bigger problems and help you get lasting relief.