Is Tooth Sensitivity a Sign of Something More Serious?

Some types of dental discomfort are easy to ignore, but tooth sensitivity tends to get your attention fast. You may start to wonder if it’s just a minor annoyance or if it could be a sign that something deeper is going on.

At Gentle Dental Care in Edison, New Jersey, our experienced dentists can find the source of that pain and resolve it with the right dental treatment. You may benefit from fluoride treatments, protective sealants, gum care, or a custom night guard if grinding is contributing to enamel wear. Our team includes Dr. Brad Strober, Dr. Cynthia Butcofski, and Dr. Rebecca Kucharsky Hiess, all of whom combine advanced training with one-on-one care.

What Typically Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity often begins when the enamel (the hard outer layer of your tooth) starts to thin or wear away. This exposes the underlying dentin, which contains tiny tubules that connect to the tooth’s nerve. When those tubules are exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods, you might feel a quick jolt or sting.

This kind of sensitivity is usually linked to common habits or minor oral health issues, including:

• Brushing too hard
• Using whitening products
• Eating or drinking acidic foods and beverages
• Gum irritation after a cleaning
• Temporary sensitivity following dental procedures
• Mild enamel erosion from everyday wear

In many cases, switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush or using desensitizing toothpaste can make a difference.

When It Might Be Something More Serious

Not all sensitivity is harmless. If the discomfort persists, gets worse, or is tied to specific teeth, it may be a sign of an underlying dental problem, such as:

• Tooth decay
• Cracked or chipped teeth
• Gum recession exposing the tooth roots
• Worn enamel from chronic grinding
• Pulp inflammation or nerve damage inside the tooth

If you’re experiencing sharp or lingering pain, discomfort when chewing, or visible gum recession, it’s best to have it checked by a dentist. 

How We Help at Gentle Dental Care

The Gentle Dental Care team can help catch small issues before they become bigger (and more expensive) problems.

Treatment depends on what’s causing your sensitivity. Common options include:

• Fluoride treatments: Strengthen enamel to reduce sensitivity over time
• Sealants: Cover exposed dentin or root surfaces to block irritation
• Desensitizing products: Help calm nerve responses and ease discomfort
• Custom night guards: Prevent enamel wear from teeth grinding during sleep

Call for an Evaluation

Tooth sensitivity should not be ignored if it keeps coming back. Call Gentle Dental Care in Edison, NJ, at 732-549-5660 to schedule an appointment. Let’s find the cause and help you feel comfortable again!