What Causes Sensitive Teeth—and How You Can Prevent It
Are you experiencing discomfort when enjoying your favourite coffee, a cold treat, or even while brushing? Tooth sensitivity is a common concern we see here at Dentistry at The Grove, and it can affect your comfort and quality of life if left untreated.
Here are some of the most common causes of sensitive teeth and what you can do to protect your smile:
1. Too Much Mouthwash
While fresh breath feels great, using mouthwash too often can sometimes worsen tooth sensitivity. Many over-the-counter mouthwashes contain acids that can irritate sensitive teeth, especially if the enamel is already weakened. We recommend limiting mouthwash use to once or twice daily and speaking with our team about fluoride rinses designed specifically for sensitive teeth.
2. Acidic Foods
Do you love citrus fruits, tomatoes, and juices? Acidic foods and drinks can gradually erode your enamel, exposing the dentin layer underneath, which is more sensitive to temperature changes and sweets. You don’t have to cut these foods out completely, but consider rinsing with water afterward or pairing acidic foods with cheese or milk to help protect your enamel.
3. Tooth Whitening Products
Everyone wants a brighter smile, but whitening products and some whitening toothpastes can contribute to tooth sensitivity due to the peroxide-based agents they contain. The sensitivity often goes away once you stop using these products. At Dentistry at The Grove, we offer professional whitening options tailored to your comfort, helping you achieve a brighter smile while minimizing sensitivity.
4. Receding Gums
Your gums play a crucial role in protecting the roots of your teeth. If you have gum recession, the exposed root surfaces can lead to heightened sensitivity, especially when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods. Gum recession can result from gum disease or brushing too hard. Our Burlington dental team can evaluate your gum health and recommend appropriate treatments to protect your teeth and manage sensitivity.
5. Brushing Too Hard
Brushing your teeth too vigorously or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can damage your enamel and contribute to gum recession, leading to sensitivity. We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular brushing motions to clean your teeth effectively while protecting your enamel and gums.
6. Recent Dental Procedures
Dental cleanings, fillings, crowns, and other treatments are important for maintaining your oral health, but they can sometimes cause temporary sensitivity. If you notice sensitivity following your appointment at Dentistry at The Grove, let us know. This sensitivity often resolves within a few days, but we can provide guidance to keep you comfortable.
7. Cracked or Chipped Teeth
Chewing on hard objects or having large fillings can cause cracks in your teeth, which may lead to sensitivity and discomfort while chewing. Cracks can allow bacteria to enter the tooth, leading to further inflammation and pain. If you suspect a cracked tooth, contact our Burlington clinic for prompt assessment and care.
8. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Grinding or clenching your teeth, especially at night, can wear down enamel and increase sensitivity. If you notice jaw soreness or tooth sensitivity in the mornings, you may be grinding your teeth while you sleep. Our team at Dentistry at The Grove can provide custom night guards to protect your teeth from further wear and reduce sensitivity.
9. Tooth Decay
Cavities expose the sensitive inner layers of your teeth to hot, cold, and sweet foods, leading to discomfort. Maintaining good oral hygiene, reducing sugar intake, and visiting us regularly for checkups and cleanings are the best ways to prevent tooth decay and keep your smile healthy.
How Dentistry at The Grove Can Help
At Dentistry at The Grove, dental clinic in Burlington, we are committed to helping you maintain a healthy, comfortable smile. If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, don’t ignore it. Sensitivity can indicate underlying issues that need attention, and early intervention can prevent more serious problems in the future.
We offer:
✅ Personalized consultations to identify the cause of your sensitivity
✅ Professional fluoride treatments to strengthen your enamel
✅ Custom night guards for teeth grinding protection
✅ Gentle cleanings and gum care to address recession and inflammation
✅ Sensitivity-friendly whitening options for a brighter, comfortable smile
Book Your Appointment Today
Don’t let tooth sensitivity affect your daily life. Let our caring team at Dentistry at The Grove help you enjoy your favourite foods and drinks comfortably again. We proudly serve patients in Burlington and surrounding communities with comprehensive, gentle dental care.
📞 Call us today at (289) 427-8200 or
💻 Book your appointment online to start your journey toward a healthier, pain-free smile.
