Sensitive Teeth Treatment in San Diego, CA
If a sip of iced coffee or a bite of ice cream makes you wince, you may have sensitive teeth. At Apple Dental of San Diego, we find out what is causing your sensitivity and recommend treatment that brings lasting comfort. Call (619) 236-9549 to schedule an appointment.
Why Teeth Become Sensitive
Underneath your enamel is a layer called dentin, which contains thousands of tiny channels that lead to the tooth’s nerve. When enamel wears down or gums recede, the dentin is exposed. Hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods can then reach the nerve and trigger a quick, sharp pain. Sensitivity can affect one tooth or many, and it can come and go.
Common Causes of Tooth Sensitivity
- Enamel erosion from acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus, soda, and sports drinks
- Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush
- Receding gums caused by gum disease or aggressive brushing, which expose the root surfaces
- Tooth decay or worn, leaking fillings
- Cracked or chipped teeth that allow temperature changes to reach the nerve
- Teeth grinding, which wears down enamel over time
- Recent dental work or whitening, which can cause temporary sensitivity
When Sensitivity Signals a Bigger Problem
Mild, short-lived sensitivity is common and often manageable at home. However, call our office if sensitivity lingers long after you eat or drink, affects a single tooth, comes with pain when biting, or shows up alongside swelling or a toothache. These symptoms can point to decay, a crack, or an infected nerve that needs treatment.
How We Treat Sensitive Teeth
At Apple Dental of San Diego, we start with a thorough dental exam and digital X-rays to find the cause. Treatment is tailored to what we find:
- Desensitizing products and fluoride to strengthen enamel and block sensations from reaching the nerve
- Tooth-colored fillings to repair decay or replace worn restorations
- Gum disease treatment to address inflammation and protect exposed roots
- Porcelain crowns or cracked tooth repair for damaged teeth
- A custom night guard to protect enamel from grinding
- Root canal therapy when the nerve is inflamed or infected
Tips to Reduce Sensitivity at Home
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with gentle strokes, try a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth, limit acidic foods and drinks, and wait about 30 minutes after eating acidic foods before brushing. If you are planning teeth whitening, let us know about any sensitivity so we can recommend the most comfortable option. See our full list of dental conditions we treat.
Tooth Sensitivity FAQs
Why are my teeth suddenly sensitive?
Sudden sensitivity can be caused by a new cavity, a cracked tooth, a worn filling, receding gums, or recent whitening or dental work. An exam can pinpoint the cause.
Is tooth sensitivity a sign of a cavity?
It can be. Sensitivity to sweets or temperature, especially in a single tooth, may mean decay is present. Other causes include enamel wear and gum recession.
Does sensitive toothpaste really work?
Toothpaste made for sensitive teeth can reduce mild sensitivity over a few weeks of regular use, but it does not fix underlying problems like decay or cracks.
Can receding gums cause sensitive teeth?
Yes. When gums recede, the root surfaces are exposed. Roots do not have enamel protection, so they react more to hot, cold, and sweet foods.
Is sensitivity after teeth whitening normal?
Temporary sensitivity is common after whitening and usually fades within a few days. We can recommend options to keep you comfortable.
When should I see a dentist about sensitive teeth?
Schedule a visit if sensitivity lasts more than a few weeks, affects one tooth, lingers after eating, or comes with pain when biting.
Can grinding my teeth make them sensitive?
Yes. Grinding and clenching wear down enamel and can cause small cracks, both of which can lead to sensitivity. A custom night guard can help protect your teeth.
Enjoy Your Favorite Foods Again
You don’t have to live with sensitive teeth. Call (619) 236-9549 or request an appointment online, and we’ll help you find relief.