If taking a sip of hot coffee or biting into ice cream makes your teeth wince, you’re not alone. Tooth sensitivity affects around one in three Canadians at some time. It’s one of the top reasons for people to book an extra dental appointment. But what’s actually going on inside your teeth, and how do you fix it?
What’s going on Inside your Teeth?
Your teeth aren’t all hard enamel. Underneath is dentin, which contains tiny tubes that connect directly to the nerve of the tooth. When enamel wears down or gums recede, those tubes become exposed, and suddenly these hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods send out a jolt of pain.
Canadian research confirms that erosion (commonly due to acidic diets and frequent snacking) and gum recession (brushing too hard, or gum disease) are the most common culprits.
The Big Triggers
Here are the common culprits of tooth sensitivity:
- Cold drinks and ice cream are the leading reported triggers in surveys done in Canada.
- Hot drinks, such as coffee or tea, coming into contact with exposed dentin.
- Acidic foods – citrus, pop, and even sports drinks can thin out enamel.
- Sweet snacks – sugar can not only irritate exposed dentin but also can fuel cavities.
- Aggressive brushing – scrubbing too hard wears down the enamel and pushes gums backwards.
- Whitening products – some whitening strips or gels temporarily cause teeth to become more sensitive.
What Canadian Experts Recommend
”Even our staff can’t resist eating ice cream!”
The CDA and public health literature recommend the following few evidence-based actions:
1. Switch to a Sensitive Teeth Toothpaste
These contain ingredients such as potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride, which have a calming effect on the nerves within the dentin.
2. Use a Soft-bristle Brush and use Less Force
The CDA advises using a 45-degree angle to the gumline and using light circles instead of scrubbing.
3. Watch your Diet
Limit acid drinks such as soda and fruit juice. If you do drink them, gargle with water and wait 30 minutes before brushing.
4. Fluoride is your Friend
In-office fluoride varnishes and fluoridated toothpaste taken daily can fortify the enamel and seal those tiny tubes of dentin.
5. Visit your Dentist if it does not go Away
Sometimes sensitivity is an indication of a more serious problem, such as cavities, cracked teeth, or gum disease. If the nerve is severely exposed, your dentist might apply a protective coating, bonding, or, in extreme cases, recommend a root canal.
Everyday Canadian Habits to Protect your Enamel
- Drink water (particularly tap water, which contains fluoride where available).
- Chew sugar-free gum after eating to increase saliva and buffer the acids.
- Change your toothbrush every three months. Worn bristles are abrasive to gums.
- Check whitening routines. Stop them if you notice an increase in sensitivity.
Our Take
Tooth sensitivity can be annoying, but it is usually manageable. Start with the basics:
- Switch toothpaste
- Adjust your brushing
- Keep an eye on your diet.
If you’re still wincing after a couple of weeks, then book a visit to see your dentist. With the proper care, you will feel major relief.
Tip: Next time you’re at the dentist, bring your current toothpaste and toothbrush, as we’ll be checking to see if this is helping or hurting your sensitive teeth.
