Teeth Sensitivity
Sharp zings from cold drinks or brushing are not normal. At <strong>the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Raleigh-Durham</strong>, we find the TMJ and bite factors behind sensitivity so relief lasts.
Over 70 Centres
Decades
Tens of Thousands
Why Teeth Get Sensitive, And How the TMJ Is Involved
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Tooth sensitivity happens when protective enamel or gum tissue is compromised and stimuli reach the dentin or nerve. Common dental causes include enamel erosion, exposed roots from recession, fractures, or recent whitening. In many adults, <strong>clenching and grinding</strong> related to <strong>TMJ dysfunction</strong> and sleep-disordered breathing add significant bite stress that accelerates wear, micro-cracks, and gingival recession. The result is zinging pain with cold, sweet, or brushing.
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“Tooth sensitivity occurs when dentin is exposed due to enamel loss or gingival recession.”
<a href=”https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/tooth-sensitivity” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>American Dental Association</a>
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“Sleep bruxism is associated with sleep-disordered breathing and temporomandibular disorders.”
<a href=”https://aadsm.org/docs/JDSM.1.1.27.pdf” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>J Dent Sleep Med, evidence-based review</a>
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At <strong>the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Raleigh-Durham</strong>, we look beyond toothpaste fixes. We evaluate the airway, sleep history, bite mechanics, TMJ health, and parafunctional habits. Then we build a non-surgical plan to reduce nerve irritation, protect enamel, and calm the jaw system.
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When To Seek Treatment
These red flags suggest sensitivity is coming from bite stress or TMJ-related clenching — not just weak enamel:
Waking with tight jaw muscles and sensitive teeth points to overnight clenching that loads enamel and the TMJ.
Flattened cusps, craze lines, or chipped edges with sensitivity suggest parafunction driving dentin exposure.
Abfraction-type notches and recession can come from heavy lateral forces during clenching or grinding episodes.
High spots or unstable bite contacts keep loading one tooth. Balancing the bite and jaw position helps symptoms settle.
Relief begins with the right diagnosis
If cold, sweet, or brushing sets your teeth off, there is a reason. At <strong>the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Raleigh-Durham</strong>, we relieve sensitivity by calming clenching forces, stabilizing the TMJ, and protecting enamel.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Sensitivity
Sensitivity is common, but it is not random. These answers explain how the jaw, airway, and bite can drive it — and how we treat the cause for lasting relief.
Real Stories, Real Relief
At the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre of Raleigh-Durham, we understand how life-changing it can be to finally find relief from TMJ pain and sleep-related issues.
TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centre
Global Expertise
As proud members of TMJ International, we are part of a global team dedicated to advancing collaborative care in TMJ disorders and sleep therapy. Together, we bring innovation, expertise, and compassionate treatment to help patients find lasting relief and a healthier quality of life.
Over 70 Centres
Decades