What Causes My Tooth Sensitivity, and How Can I Treat It?

Tooth sensitivity is a common dental concern that affects many people in London, ON, and beyond. If you experience discomfort or pain when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, you’re not alone. At our London, ON dental office, we’re committed to helping patients understand the causes of tooth sensitivity and find effective treatments to restore comfort and confidence in their smiles. In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons behind sensitive teeth, treatment options, and how our dental team can help you achieve optimal oral health.

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity, also known as dentin hypersensitivity, occurs when the inner layer of your tooth, called dentin, becomes exposed. The dentin contains microscopic tubules that connect to the tooth’s nerve endings, making it sensitive to external stimuli like temperature or certain foods. When the protective enamel or gums wear down, these stimuli trigger discomfort or sharp pain.

Tooth sensitivity can affect anyone, but it’s particularly common among adults in London, ON, due to factors like diet, oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle. Identifying the root cause is the first step to finding relief, and our experienced dental team is here to guide you.

Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity

Several factors can lead to sensitive teeth. Here are the most common culprits:

1. Worn Enamel: Over time, enamel can erode due to aggressive brushing, acidic foods (like citrus or soda), or teeth grinding (bruxism). This exposes the dentin, leading to sensitivity.

2. Gum Recession: Receding gums, often caused by gum disease or improper brushing, expose the tooth’s root surface, which lacks enamel and is highly sensitive.

3. Cavities or Tooth Decay: Untreated cavities can weaken enamel and expose nerves, causing discomfort when eating or drinking.

4. Teeth Grinding: Grinding your teeth, especially at night, can wear down enamel and increase sensitivity.

5. Dental Procedures: Recent dental work, such as fillings, crowns, or teeth whitening, can temporarily cause sensitivity.

6. Cracked or Chipped Teeth: Damage to a tooth can expose the dentin or nerves, leading to pain.

7. Acidic Diet: Frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks, common in London’s vibrant food scene, can erode enamel over time.

If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity, our London, ON dental office offers comprehensive exams to pinpoint the cause and create a personalized treatment plan.

Effective Treatments for Tooth Sensitivity

The good news is that tooth sensitivity is treatable, and our dental team is here to help you find relief. Depending on the cause, we may recommend one or more of the following solutions:

1. Desensitizing Toothpaste

Desensitizing toothpaste contains compounds like potassium nitrate or strontium chloride, which help block the tubules in the dentin, reducing nerve sensitivity. Use it consistently for a few weeks to notice results.

2. Fluoride Treatments

In-office fluoride treatments strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity. Our London, ON dentists apply a high-concentration fluoride gel or varnish to protect your teeth and promote remineralization.

3. Addressing Gum Disease

If gum recession is the cause, we may recommend scaling and root planing to treat gum disease and prevent further recession. In severe cases, a gum graft may be necessary to cover exposed roots.

4. Dental Bonding or Sealants

For worn enamel or exposed dentin, our dentists can apply bonding resin or dental sealants to cover sensitive areas, providing a protective barrier.

5. Custom Mouthguards

If teeth grinding is causing sensitivity, a custom-fitted nightguard can protect your teeth from further damage. Our London, ON dental office creates comfortable, durable mouthguards tailored to your needs.

6. Treating Cavities or Damaged Teeth

Cavities, cracks, or chips require prompt treatment. Fillings, crowns, or other restorative procedures can repair damage and alleviate sensitivity.

7. Dietary and Oral Hygiene Changes

We may suggest reducing acidic foods and drinks, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and adopting proper brushing techniques to prevent further enamel erosion or gum recession.

Preventing Tooth Sensitivity

Prevention is key to maintaining healthy, pain-free teeth. Here are some tips to reduce your risk of sensitivity:

• Brush Gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid aggressive scrubbing to protect enamel and gums.

• Floss Daily: Remove plaque and food particles to prevent gum disease and cavities.

• Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks: Cut back on citrus, soda, and sugary snacks, and rinse your mouth with water after consuming them.

• Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Routine checkups at our London, ON dental office allow us to catch issues early and provide preventive care.

• Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth, a custom mouthguard can prevent enamel wear.

  
  

Why Choose Our London, ON Dental Office?

At our dental practice in London, Ontario, we prioritize patient comfort and personalized care. Our experienced dentists use state-of-the-art technology to diagnose and treat tooth sensitivity, ensuring you leave our office with a healthier, more comfortable smile. Whether you’re a new patient or a long-time member of our dental family, we’re here to address your concerns and help you achieve optimal oral health.

Book Your Appointment Today!

Don’t let tooth sensitivity hold you back from enjoying your favorite foods or smiling confidently. If you’re in London, ON, and searching for a trusted dentist to treat tooth sensitivity, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We’re accepting new patients and look forward to helping you achieve a pain-free smile!