🦷 Tooth Sensitivity: What Causes It & How to Treat It

If drinking iced coffee or eating ice cream causes a sharp jolt in your teeth, you’re not alone.

Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common dental complaints—and it’s often a sign that your teeth need attention.

At ALFIE Dentistry in North York, we help patients find relief from sensitive teeth every day. Whether it's caused by enamel erosion, gum recession, or teeth grinding, the good news is: tooth sensitivity is treatable.

🧊 What Is Tooth Sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity, also called dentin hypersensitivity, happens when the inner layer of your tooth (called dentin) becomes exposed. This can occur if:

Your tooth enamel wears down

Your gums recede, exposing the roots of the teeth

Dentin contains tiny tubes that lead directly to the nerves inside your tooth. When exposed to cold, hot, sweet, or acidic foods, these tubes can send pain signals to the nerve—causing discomfort or sharp pain.

👀 What Causes Sensitive Teeth?

The causes of sensitive teeth vary, but they often include:

Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush, which can wear down enamel

Overuse of whitening toothpastes or treatments

Teeth grinding (bruxism), especially at night

Gum recession, often due to gum disease or brushing too aggressively

Frequently consuming acidic foods and drinks, like citrus fruits, sparkling water, soda, or vinegar

Understanding the cause is the first step to finding the right solution.

🛠️ How We Treat Sensitive Teeth at ALFIE Dentistry

At ALFIE Dentistry, we take time to diagnose the cause of your tooth sensitivity and recommend a personalized treatment plan. Common treatments for sensitive teeth include:

✅ Fillings

If your sensitivity is caused by enamel erosion, small cracks, or exposed root surfaces, we may recommend composite fillings. These seal and protect sensitive areas and blend in naturally with your teeth.

✅ Custom Night Guards for Teeth Grinding

For patients who grind or clench their teeth at night, we offer custom night guards. These guards prevent enamel damage and help reduce sensitivity.

✅ Gum Care and Cleaning

If gum disease or receding gums are contributing to your discomfort, we may recommend a deep cleaning or other gum treatments to prevent further exposure of the tooth roots.

Our goal is to treat the root cause of your symptoms—not just mask them—so you can get lasting relief.

💜 Don’t Let Tooth Sensitivity Affect Your Life

Whether you’ve been dealing with sensitive teeth for years or just started noticing discomfort, our dental team in North York is here to help.

Tooth sensitivity may be common, but it’s not something you have to live with.

📅 Book a Tooth Sensitivity Check-Up

Ready to stop avoiding your favourite foods and drinks?

Book a consultation at ALFIE Dentistry today—we’ll help you find the right solution and protect your smile.

📍 Conveniently located in North York

🦷 Experienced in family, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry

🌐 We speak English, Cantonese, and Mandarin