Sensitive Teeth Treatment in North York
A quick, sharp twinge from ice water or a cold breeze is a common problem. Finding the cause is the first step to making your teeth more comfortable.
Sensitive teeth treatment in North York at Emerald Forest Dental starts with finding the cause, such as exposed roots, worn enamel, a cavity or a cracked filling. Depending on what your dentist finds, help may include a desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride varnish, bonding over exposed roots, a filling or changes to how you brush.
- Typical time
- Assessment is part of an exam; most in-office treatments take one short visit
- Who it's for
- Anyone whose teeth twinge with cold, hot, sweet or sour foods, or with brushing
- Coverage
- Exams and fluoride are often covered by insurance; check your plan
- Recovery
- None for most treatments; relief may build over a few weeks
About sensitive teeth treatment
Under your enamel and gums is a layer called dentin. Dentin is full of tiny tubes that lead toward the nerve. When enamel wears thin or gums pull back, these tubes are exposed. Cold, heat, sweets and even air can then move fluid inside the tubes, which the nerve feels as a short, sharp jolt.
Common causes include brushing too hard, gum recession, grinding, acid from pop, citrus or reflux, and recent whitening or dental work. But sensitivity can also be a sign of a cavity, a cracked tooth or a leaking filling. That is why it is worth having your dentist look rather than just switching toothpastes and hoping. Sensitivity that lingers for a long time after the trigger is gone, or a tooth that aches on its own, may point to a problem with the nerve.
Once the cause is clear, treatment is often simple. A toothpaste for sensitive teeth, used every day for a few weeks, helps many people. In the office, fluoride varnish or a desensitizing agent can be painted onto exposed areas. Bonding can cover a worn spot near the gum line. If grinding is involved, a night guard may help, and if gum recession is severe, gum treatment may be discussed.
Signs of tooth sensitivity
- A sharp twinge when you drink something cold or hot
- Discomfort when you eat sweet or sour foods
- Pain when you breathe in cold air through your mouth
- Teeth that feel sore when you brush or floss
- Teeth that look longer because the gums have pulled back
Benefits
- Your dentist checks for cavities or cracks behind the sensitivity
- Simple at-home and in-office options for many causes
- Advice to protect enamel and gums from further wear
- Eating and drinking can become more comfortable
What to expect
- Tell us your triggersLet us know which teeth react, to what, and how long the feeling lasts.
- Exam and testsYour dentist checks for recession, worn enamel, cavities, cracks and old fillings, and may take X-rays.
- Find the causeWe explain what is causing your sensitivity and whether it is a surface issue or a sign of something deeper.
- TreatTreatment may include fluoride varnish, a desensitizing coating, bonding, a filling or a night guard.
- Adjust home careWe suggest products and brushing habits to help keep sensitivity from coming back.
Aftercare
- Use a soft-bristled brush with gentle, small circles rather than hard scrubbing.
- Use a toothpaste for sensitive teeth twice daily, and spit without rinsing so it stays on your teeth.
- After acidic foods or drinks, rinse with water and wait about 30 minutes before brushing.
Cost and coverage
Looking into sensitivity is usually part of a regular exam, and many treatments, such as fluoride varnish or a desensitizing coating, are short and simple. Bonding, fillings or a night guard have their own fees. Ontario dentists often base fees on the ODA suggested fee guide, and insurance plans commonly cover exams and some of this care. If you have CDCP, ask us how it may apply. LendCare payment plans are available if you need more involved treatment.
Our promise: we confirm your coverage and explain the cost before treatment.
Your dental team
Dr. Hamed Jannati, DDS
General Dentist
Dr. Ye Zhang, DDS
General Dentist
Dr. Kasra Badii, DDS
General Dentist
Treatment is provided by our dentists. Dr. Ardeshir Ranjbari is a registered specialist in periodontics; our other dentists are general dentists. Some complex cases may be referred to a specialist.
Sensitive Teeth Treatment FAQ
Does sensitive teeth mean I have a cavity?
Not always, but it can. Many cases come from exposed roots or worn enamel. Because cavities and cracks can feel similar, it is worth having your dentist check.
How long does sensitive toothpaste take to work?
Many people notice a change within two to four weeks of daily use. It works by blocking or calming the tiny tubes in the dentin, so it needs to be used regularly to keep working.
Why are my teeth sensitive after whitening?
Whitening gel can temporarily make teeth more sensitive. It usually fades within a few days. Let us know if it lasts, and tell us before your next whitening so we can adjust the plan.
Can brushing too hard cause sensitivity?
Yes. Scrubbing with a hard brush can wear enamel near the gum line and push gums back over time. A soft brush and a gentle technique help protect your teeth.
When is sensitivity a reason to call right away?
Call us if the pain lingers for a long time after the trigger, wakes you up at night, comes with swelling or is getting worse. These can be signs of a problem with the nerve.
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Sensitive Teeth Treatment near you
We see patients from across North York and nearby areas, including North York, Don Mills, Parkway Forest, Henry Farm, Willowdale, Scarborough, Richmond Hill, Markham.
This page is general information and is not a substitute for an exam. Your dentist will recommend what's right for you. Reviewed by: Dr. Hamed Jannati, DDS. Last updated 2026-10-26.
Book sensitive teeth treatment in North York
New patients welcome. We'll confirm your coverage before treatment.