Charm Dental Brentwood - Burnaby

Tooth Sensitivity Treatment in Burnaby

Tooth sensitivity triggered by hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods can be effectively treated both in the dental office and with at-home care. Our team is here to help you find relief and restore comfort to your teeth.
Call 604-227-1221

The Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth pain from sensitivity occurs when the nerves inside your teeth become irritated. Typically, enamel acts as a protective shield for your teeth. Beneath the enamel is dentin, and at the core lies the pulp, which contains the tooth’s nerve. When enamel wears down or is compromised, it exposes the dentin, leaving the nerve vulnerable to irritants like heat, cold, or acidic foods. Tooth sensitivity is usually the result of habits or conditions that weaken or damage the enamel, leading to this discomfort.

The Many Ways Tooth Enamel Can Become Damaged:
  • Consuming acidic foods and beverages, especially before bed.
  • Skipping regular oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing.
  • Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with stiff bristles.
  • Trying to use professional dental tools at home.
  • Health conditions like acid reflux or bulimia that expose teeth to stomach acid.
  • Untreated gum disease or receding gums.
  • Cracked, chipped, or damaged teeth.
  • Leaving dental cavities untreated.
  • Using tobacco, cannabis products, or vaping.
  • Grinding or clenching your teeth.
  • Overuse of teeth whitening products.

These factors can erode or weaken your enamel, leading to sensitivity and other dental issues.

What Can You Do About Sensitive Teeth?

The first and most crucial step when you experience tooth sensitivity or pain is to visit the dentist. We’ll examine your teeth to rule out any underlying issues and recommend treatments for any damage or decay. With a proper diagnosis, you can be confident that you’re addressing the problem correctly. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during the process:

Figure out the underlying cause

We take a thorough approach to diagnosing your tooth sensitivity. During your exam, we’ll ask detailed questions about when and how often the sensitivity occurs. You may need new X-rays, and your dentist will carefully check your teeth and gums. Additional diagnostic tools, such as a tap or cold test, may also be used to pinpoint the cause.

Treatment in the office

If your tooth sensitivity is due to damage or decay, we offer a range of restorative treatments. Options might include something as routine as a filling or more advanced solutions like crowns. For enamel that’s been worn down, home treatments may help, but we’ll also discuss available in-office treatments. You’ll be fully informed of your choices, and the decision is yours to make.

Personalized Advice

Tooth sensitivity can stem from various causes, but once your exam is complete, we’ll help narrow it down. Your dentist will provide personalized advice and tips to strengthen your enamel at home and prevent further issues, ensuring long-term oral health.

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

First, it’s important to replace your current toothbrush with one that has soft bristles, which is gentler on your teeth and gums. Brush twice a day using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth, and make sure to clean along the gumline carefully. Floss regularly and use a fluoride mouthwash to strengthen your enamel. Limiting acidic and sugary foods or drinks such as coffee, soda, wine, and fruit juice—especially before bedtime—can help reduce sensitivity. If you notice you’re grinding or clenching your teeth, try stress-relief methods like mindfulness or relaxation exercises to ease the pressure on your jaw. Ultimately, visiting the dentist is key to addressing the root cause of your sensitivity and finding a long-term solution.

In certain situations, improving your dental hygiene routine at home can alleviate tooth sensitivity. By keeping your teeth clean and preventing further erosion, your enamel has the chance to heal itself, especially with the assistance of fluoride treatments. However, it’s important to remember that dental pain is your body’s way of indicating something may be wrong. If the enamel is worn down to the point where the dentin is exposed, it’s possible you could be at risk for infection or an abscess, and professional treatment will be needed to address the issue.

Yes, stress can contribute to tooth sensitivity in an indirect way. When people are stressed, they may skip their regular oral care, snack on sugary or acidic foods, or increase smoking, all of which can weaken enamel and cause sensitivity. Additionally, stress often leads to teeth grinding or clenching, even during sleep, which can wear down enamel and expose the more sensitive layers of your teeth. This combination of factors can lead to increased discomfort and sensitivity over time.

Acidic and sugary foods, along with certain starchy and hard foods, can contribute to tooth sensitivity by wearing down enamel. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Acidic foods: Coffee, wine, fruit juice, citrus fruits, soda, tomatoes, pickles, and vinegar.
  • Sweet foods: Chocolate, jams, caramel, hard candies, ice cream, and even sweet drinks like juice and soda.
  • Simple starches: Donuts, cakes, bread, chips, crackers, and cookies, which turn into sugar in the mouth and can contribute to enamel erosion.
  • Hard foods: Chewing on ice, hard candies, or foods with pits like cherries and popcorn can damage teeth and wear down enamel.

You don’t need to eliminate these foods from your diet—just practice moderation and make sure to maintain good oral hygiene, especially before bed.

When managing tooth sensitivity, focus on low-acid, low-sugar foods, and drinks. Fiber-rich foods and dairy products are excellent for promoting saliva production and strengthening enamel. Here are some options:

  • Drinks: Water, green tea, and black tea.
  • Snacks: Raisins, nuts, celery sticks, carrot sticks, apple slices, and cheese.
  • Meals: Stir-fries, salads, wraps, or meat and potatoes with vegetables.
  • Desserts: Yogurt, ricotta with berries, or applesauce.

These foods help promote oral health and reduce the risk of sensitivity.

Google Verified Patient Reviews

Sac
1 month ago
I’ve been visiting Charm Dental for ~2 years and have had a fantastic experience with Dr. Christabelle. She is very professional, patient, and kind, always taking the time to explain procedures in detail and provide thoughtful advice. The staff is also friendly and welcoming. I highly recommend Dr. Christabelle to anyone looking for a trustworthy and skilled dentist!
More
Emma ChO
1 month ago
This is the most professional dental clinic I’ve ever been to, and they do an amazing job of explaining everything in a way that patients can easily understand. At most dental offices, the explanations are often too brief—you’re told where the problem is and that it needs to be treated, but you’re left unsure about what’s really going on with your teeth. However, at this clinic, the doctor takes the time to thoroughly explain everything from why the issue is happening to how they plan to treat it, making it so much easier to trust the process. I was treated by Dr. Christabelle, and not only was she incredibly kind, but you can also tell just how skilled she is the moment you receive treatment. My husband also had his wisdom tooth removed here, and he was extremely satisfied—he even said he’s glad we found such a great dental clinic! 😆 The receptionists are always friendly and welcoming, which makes each visit even better. Plus, their equipment is top-notch and up-to-date, which adds to the trustworthiness of their care. Highly recommend this place! 😊👏
More
Alice Nguyen
1 month ago
This is the best dental service I have ever received in Canada. Dr. Ken is very professional, kind, friendly, and knowledgeable. I did my fillings and Invisalign treatment with him, and I was extremely satisfied with both the process and the results. The clinic’s facility is new, spacious, and clean, equipped with the latest updated technology. The front desk staff are very helpful and always do their best to schedule appointments that fit my schedule. Even though I moved to the East, Dr. Ken and his team are always willing to assist me with any concerns I have. Their dedication and exceptional service make every visit a pleasant experience. I highly recommend this clinic to anyone looking for professional and caring dental care!
More
Roshni Sarath
3 months ago
I’ve been visiting Charm Dental for 2 years, and every experience has been exceptional. Dr. Ken and the team are incredibly friendly and compassionate, ensuring I’m always comfortable despite my nervousness. They take their time, never rush treatments, and check in often to ensure I’m doing well. Their advice and suggestions are always thoughtful and in my best interest. The clinic is spotless, and the receptionists provide top-notch customer care, making every visit pleasant. I highly recommend Charm Dental for anyone looking for a caring and professional dental team!
More
Jason Lee
5 months ago
We recently took our 6-year-old son to Charm Dental in Brentwood for a check-up, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience! Dr. Ken was incredibly friendly and made our son feel comfortable right from the start. He truly went the extra mile to ensure our son had a positive visit, which we appreciated so much as parents. The facilities are excellent—modern and clean—and all the staff were welcoming and professional. Truly the best dentist in Burnaby for families! Highly recommend!
More
Sac
1 month ago
I’ve been visiting Charm Dental for ~2 years and have had a fantastic experience with Dr. Christabelle. She is very professional, patient, and kind, always taking the time to explain procedures in detail and provide thoughtful advice. The staff is also friendly and welcoming. I highly recommend Dr. Christabelle to anyone looking for a trustworthy and skilled dentist!
More
Emma ChO
1 month ago
This is the most professional dental clinic I’ve ever been to, and they do an amazing job of explaining everything in a way that patients can easily understand. At most dental offices, the explanations are often too brief—you’re told where the problem is and that it needs to be treated, but you’re left unsure about what’s really going on with your teeth. However, at this clinic, the doctor takes the time to thoroughly explain everything from why the issue is happening to how they plan to treat it, making it so much easier to trust the process. I was treated by Dr. Christabelle, and not only was she incredibly kind, but you can also tell just how skilled she is the moment you receive treatment. My husband also had his wisdom tooth removed here, and he was extremely satisfied—he even said he’s glad we found such a great dental clinic! 😆 The receptionists are always friendly and welcoming, which makes each visit even better. Plus, their equipment is top-notch and up-to-date, which adds to the trustworthiness of their care. Highly recommend this place! 😊👏
More
Alice Nguyen
1 month ago
This is the best dental service I have ever received in Canada. Dr. Ken is very professional, kind, friendly, and knowledgeable. I did my fillings and Invisalign treatment with him, and I was extremely satisfied with both the process and the results. The clinic’s facility is new, spacious, and clean, equipped with the latest updated technology. The front desk staff are very helpful and always do their best to schedule appointments that fit my schedule. Even though I moved to the East, Dr. Ken and his team are always willing to assist me with any concerns I have. Their dedication and exceptional service make every visit a pleasant experience. I highly recommend this clinic to anyone looking for professional and caring dental care!
More
Roshni Sarath
3 months ago
I’ve been visiting Charm Dental for 2 years, and every experience has been exceptional. Dr. Ken and the team are incredibly friendly and compassionate, ensuring I’m always comfortable despite my nervousness. They take their time, never rush treatments, and check in often to ensure I’m doing well. Their advice and suggestions are always thoughtful and in my best interest. The clinic is spotless, and the receptionists provide top-notch customer care, making every visit pleasant. I highly recommend Charm Dental for anyone looking for a caring and professional dental team!
More
Jason Lee
5 months ago
We recently took our 6-year-old son to Charm Dental in Brentwood for a check-up, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience! Dr. Ken was incredibly friendly and made our son feel comfortable right from the start. He truly went the extra mile to ensure our son had a positive visit, which we appreciated so much as parents. The facilities are excellent—modern and clean—and all the staff were welcoming and professional. Truly the best dentist in Burnaby for families! Highly recommend!
More
Charm Dental Brentwood - Burnaby

Request an Appointment Today

Call 604-227-1221