T-Dot Dental - Toronto

Tooth Sensitivity Treatment in Toronto

Tooth pain caused by hot, cold, sweet and acidic foods is treatable in the office and at home.
Call 647-490-8382

The Signs And Symptoms Of Tooth Sensitivity

To get right to the point, tooth pain happens when the nerves in your teeth become irritated. Normally, our teeth are covered in a protective layer of enamel. On the inside, there is a layer of material called dentin and then the pulp at the core of the tooth which is filled with connective tissue, blood vessels and the nerve of the tooth. If enamel becomes too thin or there’s a breach exposing the dentin, the nerve is no longer protected. Tooth sensitivity is most commonly caused by any number of practices or conditions that erode or damage tooth enamel.

The many ways that tooth enamel can become damaged:
  • Drinking or eating acidic foods and beverages– especially before bed.
  • Skipping routine tooth care including flossing!
  • Brushing aggressively or using a hard toothbrush.
  • Attempting to use professional dental tools at home.
  • Health issues (like bulimia or acid reflux) which expose teeth to stomach acid.
  • Untreated gum disease and gum recession.
  • Damaged, cracked or chipped teeth.
  • Dental cavities (especially if left untreated).
  • Using tobacco products, cannabis products or vaping.
  • Grinding or clenching your teeth.
  • Overuse of some teeth whitening products.

What can you do about sensitive teeth?

The first and most important step to take after experiencing dental pain or discomfort is to see the dentist. We can rule out other possible underlying causes of your tooth pain and recommend treatments for any damage or decay detected during your appointment. With a formal diagnosis, you can feel confident that you’re moving in the right direction. Let’s break the whole process down:

Figure out the underlying cause

We won’t make any assumptions. During your examination, you will be asked to describe the sensitivity and how often it happens. You may require new Xrays and the dentist will closely examine your teeth and gums. Other diagnostic tests like the tap test or cold test may prove helpful in your diagnosis.

Treatment in the office

Teeth that are damaged or decayed can be treated with a number of restorative options from something as common as a filling to more complex procedures such as crowns. For worn down enamel, you may be able to treat it at home but there are also in-office treatments that may be available. We’ll discuss all of your options with you and you get the final say.

Personalized Advice

As you’ve seen, there are a lot of different potential causes of tooth sensitivity. Upon the completion of a dental exam, your dentist will be able to really narrow it down for you. We can give you tips and tricks tailored specifically to your needs that will continue to strengthen your enamel at home and prevent future tooth decay.

Contact us today

to schedule an initial consultation & exam.

Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chuck out your toothbrush and pick up one with soft bristles. Brush twice a day with desensitizing toothpaste and take care to gently clean along the gumline. Floss and rinse with a fluoridated mouthwash. Avoid acidic and sweet foods and drinks like coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice especially before bed. If you catch yourself clenching or grinding your teeth, try practicing mindfulness or other relaxation techniques to give your jaw a break. To stop sensitive teeth pain for good, you will have to see the dentist so we can determine the underlying cause once and for all.
In some cases, improving your dental hygiene game at home can stop tooth sensitivity. When kept clean enough to prevent more erosion and decay, your enamel can actually heal. This process is helped tremendously with fluoride treatment. Fair warning though, dental pain is a natural indicator that something is wrong and it needs to be investigated. If your enamel has become so damaged or decayed that the dentin has become exposed you may be at risk of an infection or abscess.
Indirectly, stress can lead to tooth sensitivity. People who feel extra stressed out often neglect their routine oral care, indulge in sweet or acidic treats, or smoke more. Stress can also cause you to grind or clench your teeth. Sometimes people grind and clench while they’re asleep without even realizing it!
Acids wear down the enamel. Sweet and starchy foods feed the bacteria in your mouth which produces an acidic byproduct that wears down enamel. Hard foods can also wear away your enamel or risk damaging a tooth.
  • Acidic foods: Coffee, wine and other alcohols, fruit juice and fruits (especially citrus!), soda pop, tomatoes, pickles and vinegar.
  • Sweet foods: chocolate, jams and jellies, caramel, sugar, hard candies, ice cream and an extra special second mention for juice and soda!
  • Simple starches: donuts, cake, bread, potato chips, crackers and cookies.
  • Hard foods: chewing on ice, chewing hard candies, chewing foods that may contain a pit or hard kernel such as popcorn, cherries and olives.
  • This doesn’t mean you need to avoid all these foods. Simply practice moderation and routinely clean your teeth, especially before bed.
Remember, you want low-acid, low-sugar drinks, snacks and meals. High fibre foods are excellent for your teeth and so is dairy because it promotes saliva production. Try to eat a nutritious, varied diet with plenty of protein and calcium. Here are some of the foods you can enjoy:
  • Drinks: Water, green tea, black tea.
  • Snacks: Raisins and nuts, celery and carrot sticks, apple slices. Cheese.
  • Supper: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, meat and potatoes with a side of veggies.
  • Dessert: Yogurt, ricotta and berries, apple sauce.

What Our Patients are Saying

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    Google verified patient reviews

    Esi Otchere
    4 months ago
    The entire process was very professional. From customer service to consultation, I felt very well taken care of. Dr Habib took out 3 molars so easily, I barely felt anything was happening, even with one very stubborn one which had been growing in an awkward direction for years! Highly recommend. 10/10!
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    Natasha Anwar
    1 month ago
    Impressively efficient dentist experience with Dr. Lin. She’s so knowledgeable and performed a thorough examination for my problem. I had a sudden tooth sensitivity and needed to get it checked out. It was so easy to book an appointment the same day and they were able to help me with a non-insurance rate as well. The interior is clean and well-decorated. There are screens on the ceiling in the examination room so you can watch something while laying down too. Easily the best first time experience at a dentist in Toronto.
    More
    Ramsey Kilani
    1 month ago
    Fantastic dental office. My partner had an emergency issue and they were able to take us in on a Saturday. They explained everything that was going on in great detail, and didn't try to upsell us at all when it wasn't something major. Prices are also very affordable if you don't have insurance and are paying yourself. And it's not like the place feels cheap compared to other dentists in the area either. They deserve all the good reviews they have.
    More
    I was terrified to get my 4 wisdom teeth removed and have been putting it off for years. I’ve contacted many dentists before landing on TDOT dental and Dr Habib is the most empathetic individual I came across. It’s very apparent that he truly cares about his patients and all staff members were really supportive. I felt no pain during the surgery as promised and recovery has been extremely smooth. I’ll be moving all my dental services here and my only regret is that I didn’t come here sooner!
    More
    Fatima Ahmadi
    1 week ago
    Exceptional experience at T-DOT dental clinic! Very nice and helpful staff. Dr. Habib's patiently explained everything and made my visit reassuring. Grateful for their professionalism and care.
    More
    Esi Otchere
    4 months ago
    The entire process was very professional. From customer service to consultation, I felt very well taken care of. Dr Habib took out 3 molars so easily, I barely felt anything was happening, even with one very stubborn one which had been growing in an awkward direction for years! Highly recommend. 10/10!
    More
    Natasha Anwar
    1 month ago
    Impressively efficient dentist experience with Dr. Lin. She’s so knowledgeable and performed a thorough examination for my problem. I had a sudden tooth sensitivity and needed to get it checked out. It was so easy to book an appointment the same day and they were able to help me with a non-insurance rate as well. The interior is clean and well-decorated. There are screens on the ceiling in the examination room so you can watch something while laying down too. Easily the best first time experience at a dentist in Toronto.
    More
    Ramsey Kilani
    1 month ago
    Fantastic dental office. My partner had an emergency issue and they were able to take us in on a Saturday. They explained everything that was going on in great detail, and didn't try to upsell us at all when it wasn't something major. Prices are also very affordable if you don't have insurance and are paying yourself. And it's not like the place feels cheap compared to other dentists in the area either. They deserve all the good reviews they have.
    More
    I was terrified to get my 4 wisdom teeth removed and have been putting it off for years. I’ve contacted many dentists before landing on TDOT dental and Dr Habib is the most empathetic individual I came across. It’s very apparent that he truly cares about his patients and all staff members were really supportive. I felt no pain during the surgery as promised and recovery has been extremely smooth. I’ll be moving all my dental services here and my only regret is that I didn’t come here sooner!
    More
    Fatima Ahmadi
    1 week ago
    Exceptional experience at T-DOT dental clinic! Very nice and helpful staff. Dr. Habib's patiently explained everything and made my visit reassuring. Grateful for their professionalism and care.
    More
      T-Dot Dental - Toronto

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      Call 647-490-8382

      New Patient Limited Time Promo: For a limited time, new patients can enjoy our special offer of $179 for one hour of full cleaning and polishing, including X-rays and a full mouth examination. This is a fantastic opportunity to ensure your oral health is in top condition at an unbeatable price. Schedule your appointment today by calling us at 647-490-8382.