Sensitive Tooth Pain

FAQ


What causes sensitive tooth pain?
Sensitive tooth pain is often caused by enamel erosion or gum recession, which exposes the dentin layer beneath the surface of the teeth. Contributing factors include aging, gum disease, brushing too hard or with abrasive products, consuming acidic drinks, and damage from chipped or cracked teeth.
How can I prevent tooth sensitivity?
To prevent tooth sensitivity, practice good oral hygiene by brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and using non-abrasive, sensitivity-friendly toothpaste. Limit acidic foods and beverages like soda and citrus, which can wear down enamel. Regular dental checkups are also key—your dentist can recommend specific treatments or products to help protect your teeth and reduce sensitivity.
How is sensitive tooth pain treated?
A dentist will first examine your teeth to find the cause of sensitivity. Treatments may include applying sealants for receding gums, placing dental crowns or performing root canals for cracked or broken teeth, and using special pastes during cleanings to reduce sensitivity. Prescription toothpaste like Fluoridex is often recommended to help manage the pain.

What Is Sensitive Tooth Pain?

Sensitive tooth pain happens when the protective enamel on a tooth wears away, exposing the inner dentin layer and nerve endings. This exposure makes teeth highly reactive to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks—like coffee, ice cream, or soda—causing sharp, sudden discomfort. In severe cases, the pain can be persistent and may not be relieved by standard over-the-counter treatments.

Many factors can cause sensitive tooth pain, including:

-Recessed gums as a result of age, gum disease or poor dental hygiene
-Frequently drinking soda and other acidic beverages
-A chipped or broken tooth resulting from an injury
-Over-brushing or using an overly abrasive toothbrush or toothpaste

Suffering from sensitive teeth can make it especially difficult to go to the dentist, as some dental procedures may be especially uncomfortable. When searching for a sensitive tooth dentist, Northglenn residents can turn to Northglenn Dental for a delicate approach to dental care, the procedures needed to improve tooth sensitivity as well as advice on managing sensitive teeth pain.

Put an End to Sensitive Tooth Pain

If you’re tired of the pain and discomfort that comes from sensitive teeth, visit Northglenn Dental for the proper care and guidance.

Here’s what you can expect when you visit our Northglenn office:

– The dentist will perform an initial exam to look for possible causes of your tooth sensitivity.
– After identifying the issue, the dentist will perform the appropriate procedures to ease the pain. For example, if the sensitive tooth pain is caused by a cracked or broken tooth, the dentist will begin the process of adding a dental crown or performing a root canal. For receding gums, the dentist will apply a sealant.
– For regular procedures, such as teeth cleanings, a special paste will be applied on your teeth to help prevent sensitivity.
– The dentist will prescribe Fluoridex, the prescription toothpaste we recommend for anyone suffering from sensitive tooth pain.
– Once the procedures are done, the dentist will talk about the steps you can take to prevent further complications from tooth sensitivity, including good oral hygiene, proper regular brushing and flossing, and eliminating acidic foods from your diet.

While there’s no professional title for a sensitive teeth dentist, the dentist at our Northglenn office can effectively manage your tooth sensitivity issues. Instead of living with sensitive tooth pain, take care of the problem with help from Northglenn Dental.

For more information on sensitive tooth pain, read our blog on Dental Pain: When Enough Is Enough.

Sensitive Tooth Pain

Table of Contents

How do I know if I need a night guard?

Many people grind or clench their teeth while during the day or sleeping. If you wake up with jaw pain, headaches, or notice that your teeth are wearing down or cracking, you may need a night guard. A consultation with your dentist is the best way to determine if a custom night guard could benefit you.

Why are night guards important?

Preventive care is key to maintaining healthy teeth. Preventative dentistry includes things like regular at-home hygiene, exams by your dentist, oral cancer screenings, and dental x-rays. But one commonly overlooked tool for prevention is a custom night guard. Night guards are a simple yet powerful dental appliance designed to protect your teeth from damage caused by clenching or grinding while you sleep.

People who subconsciously grind or clench their teeth during sleep suffer from a condition known as bruxism, often caused by stress or tension. 

How do I know if I’m grinding or clenching while asleep?

Many people with bruxism only become aware of their condition once they or their dentist notice the signs. Upon waking up, you may have headaches or jaw pain. At your dental visit, your dentist may see abnormal tooth wear, shortening or flattening of teeth, cracked/ fractured teeth or fillings, or gum recession.

The best protection against bruxism is a custom-made professional night guard. A custom night guard is designed specifically for you using advanced 3D imaging technology. Made from a thin, clear acrylic material, a professional night guard provides a comfortable fit and protects your upper and lower teeth. 

While a night guard won’t stop teeth grinding, it can significantly reduce its dangerous effects. By creating a barrier between your teeth, night guards prevent damage caused by grinding and reduce the pressure on your jaw muscles.

What are the long-term consequences of bruxism?

If left untreated, night time clenching and grinding can lead to serious problems with your oral health, like:

  • Temporomandibular Disorder – TMD occurs when there is a problem with one or both jaw joints, producing pain, limited joint mobility, clicking or popping sounds in the joints, or locking of the joints. 
  • Cracked or chipped teeth – Cracks and chips create pathways for bacteria to enter the tooth and reach the nerve, causing infection and potential abscess formation. 
  • Tooth sensitivity – Sensitive teeth can significantly impact your quality of life and make it difficult to eat and chew without pain.
  • Gum recession – Gum recession creates pockets between the teeth and gums, which can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, inflammation, and gum infections. Over time, severe gum recession can cause teeth to loosen and shift out of place.

These conditions will become more severe over time and may require costly treatment to restore your oral health to proper function. A custom night guard offers long-term protection against damage or dental trauma. By preventing wear and tear on your teeth, you can save time, money, and discomfort.

Next Steps:

Remember, preventive care is the foundation of great oral health, and a custom night guard could be the perfect step to protect your smile.

We’re here to provide personalized care so your smile stays healthy for years to come. If you may be experiencing headaches, jaw pain, or signs of tooth damage caused by clenching or grinding, please schedule an appointment with our team today.

Questions or Concerns?

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding your dental care, we are more than happy to discuss how you can achieve a beautiful and healthy smile.

As a top dentist in Northglenn, we have helped hundreds of families achieve their oral health goals and are eager to help you and your family do the same.