General Dentistry in Thunder Bay, ON

Tooth Sensitivity Treatment in Thunder Bay, ON

Sharp twinges when you drink something cold or bite into something sweet aren’t something you have to live with. Dr. Ameen finds out what’s causing your tooth sensitivity and treats the cause, not just the symptom.

What Is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is that quick, sharp feeling you get when something hot, cold, sweet, or acidic touches a tooth. It happens when the enamel (the hard outer layer of the tooth) wears thin, or when the gum pulls back and exposes the root underneath. Both situations let outside temperature and sugar reach the nerve inside the tooth more easily. Dr. Ameen examines your teeth and gums to figure out where the sensitivity is coming from and why. Treatment depends entirely on the cause, so this first step matters.

What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?

A few things tend to be behind most cases Dr. Ameen sees.

Worn Enamel

Brushing too hard, grinding your teeth, or acidic foods and drinks can wear down the enamel that protects the tooth.

Gum Recession

When gums pull back, the root surface underneath is exposed. Roots don’t have the same protective enamel as the crown of the tooth.

Cavities or Cracks

A cavity or a small crack can let temperature and sugar reach the nerve directly, which is why an exam is an important first step.

How Treatment Works

Here’s what a typical visit for tooth sensitivity looks like.

Exam and History

Dr. Ameen asks about your symptoms and examines your teeth and gums to look for a cause.

Identifying the Cause

He checks for worn enamel, gum recession, cavities, or cracks, using X-rays if needed.

Choosing a Treatment

Depending on the cause, this might mean a fluoride application, a bonding material, or treating a cavity.

Follow-up Guidance

You’ll get instructions on toothpaste, brushing habits, or diet changes to help keep sensitivity from coming back.

Managing Sensitivity at Home

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid pressing too hard while brushing
Try a desensitizing toothpaste made for sensitive teeth, used consistently
Cut back on acidic foods and drinks like citrus, soda, and wine
Avoid brushing right after eating or drinking something acidic

Is This Right for You?

Tooth sensitivity treatment may fit your situation if any of the following sound familiar.

Discomfort With Hot or Cold

If certain foods or drinks trigger a quick, sharp feeling, an exam can help pin down why.

Noticeable Gum Recession

If your gums have pulled back over time, the exposed root area may need a protective treatment.

General Dentist Providing Care

All care is provided by Dr. Ahmed Ameen Al-Obaidi (Dr. Ameen), a General Dentist, with over 20 years of experience in general dentistry.

Understanding Cost and Insurance

Billing for tooth sensitivity treatment depends on the cause and the treatment chosen, so Dr. Ameen will give you an exact quote after your exam. Whatever fee is quoted covers the full treatment, including any lab costs involved, and it applies the same way to every patient regardless of insurance coverage. Our front desk reviews your specific insurance benefits before treatment starts so you know what to expect.

A Quote Before You Start

You’ll know the cost of your treatment before any work begins.

Insurance Coordination

We check your specific benefits ahead of time so you know what your plan covers.

Simple At-Home Options

Some cases can be managed with an over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste, at little to no added cost.

Tooth Sensitivity Treatment FAQs

Usually worn enamel or exposed root surfaces from gum recession. Both let hot, cold, or sweet things reach the nerve inside the tooth more easily.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Usually worn enamel or exposed root surfaces from gum recession. Both let hot, cold, or sweet things reach the nerve inside the tooth more easily.

Is tooth sensitivity a sign of a bigger problem?

Sometimes, but not always. Dr. Ameen checks for cavities, cracks, or gum recession during your exam to see what’s behind it before recommending treatment.

How is tooth sensitivity treated?

Treatment depends on the cause. Options include desensitizing toothpaste, a fluoride application in the office, a bonding material over the exposed area, or treating a cavity if one is present.

Will treatment stop the sensitivity right away?

It depends on the treatment. Some options ease sensitivity within a few days, others take a couple of weeks of consistent use, like desensitizing toothpaste. Dr. Ameen will let you know what to expect for your specific treatment.

Does insurance cover tooth sensitivity treatment?

Many plans cover at least part of the cost, depending on treatment. Our front desk checks your specific coverage before treatment starts so you know what to expect.

Ready for a healthier smile?

New patients welcome. Direct billing to most insurance plans.

Redwood Dental has been serving families across Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario for over two decades.