What Is Causing My Tooth Sensitivity And What Can I Do About It?

Tooth Sensitivity: When It’s More Than Just a Twinge

It’s extremely common to feel a sharp twinge when you bite into something cold or sip a hot drink. But if you’re experiencing persistent tooth sensitivity, especially alongside other symptoms like inflamed gums or pain while chewing, it may be more than just enamel wear—it could be a sign of a more serious dental issue.

At Advanced Dental Group, we encourage patients to take these warning signs seriously. Knowing what’s behind your sensitivity can help you prevent more complex problems later on.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Your teeth are protected by enamel—the hardest substance in the human body. Beneath that lies dentin, a more porous layer that connects to your tooth’s nerve. If enamel is worn down or gums recede, the dentin becomes exposed, causing discomfort when triggered by temperature changes, pressure, or acidic foods.

Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity:

• Gum disease or receding gums
• Tooth decay or cavities
• Aggressive brushing or hard-bristled toothbrushes
• Acidic food or drinks (coffee, soda, citrus, yogurt)
• Enamel erosion from grinding or genetics
• Exposed tooth roots
• Dental procedures or cracked fillings

If you’re unsure of the cause, your general dentist can diagnose the issue and create a treatment plan to get you relief.

At-Home Tooth Sensitivity Treatments

If your sensitivity is mild or caused by habits rather than disease, there are steps you can take from home to ease discomfort and protect your enamel.

Tips for At-Home Relief:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing technique
• Switch to non-abrasive toothpaste for sensitive teeth
• Avoid acidic or sugary foods that wear enamel (soda, wine, yogurt)
• Wear a night guard if you clench or grind your teeth
• Stay on top of daily flossing and brushing

These changes not only help reduce sensitivity but also contribute to overall oral health.

When to See a Dentist for Tooth Sensitivity

If the discomfort persists or worsens, it may be a sign of deeper dental issues like infection, cavities, or gum recession. At that point, professional treatment is essential.

In-Office Solutions May Include:

• Dental crowns, inlays, or bonding to protect worn areas
• Deep cleaning or gum disease treatment
• Gum grafting or the Chao Pinhole® Surgical Technique for receding gums
• Root canal therapy if infection reaches the tooth pulp

Your dentist may use digital x-rays to determine the underlying cause and recommend the most effective solution.

Severe sensitivity could be your body’s way of signaling a need for urgent care—don’t wait until it becomes an emergency. Learn about our root canal and restoration options.

Long-Term Prevention for Sensitive Teeth

Once your sensitivity has been treated, it’s important to adopt preventive habits to protect your smile. Good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings can go a long way toward preventing enamel erosion and gum recession.

A few ways to preserve your smile:

• Brush gently, twice daily
• Use fluoride toothpaste
• Rinse after meals or acidic drinks
• Avoid aggressive whitening products without supervision

Get Relief from Tooth Sensitivity Today

If you’re experiencing persistent tooth sensitivity and aren’t sure why, let our team at Advanced Dental Group help. Call us at (561) 689-0872 to schedule your consultation.

Looking for a trusted dentist near West Palm Beach FL? Visit our website to learn more about the full range of services we offer to keep your smile strong and healthy.