Sensitive teeth

Tooth sensitivity can feel like a quick, sharp pain or a longer ache. It often happens when you eat or drink something hot, cold, sweet or acidic.

Sensitive teeth can sometimes be a sign of a dental problem, so it should not be ignored.

What causes sensitive teeth?

The outer layer of the tooth is called enamel. Underneath is dentine, which contains tiny channels linked to the nerve of the tooth.

If enamel wears away, or gums shrink back, dentine becomes exposed. This makes it easier for sensations like heat, cold or sweetness to reach the nerve and cause pain.

Common causes include:

• Brushing too hard or using a hard toothbrush.
• Gums shrinking back (gum recession).
• Acid wear from fizzy drinks, fruit juices, citrus fruits or stomach acid.
• Brushing straight after acidic food or drinks.
• Gum disease.
• Grinding or clenching your teeth.
• Cracked or damaged teeth.
• Tooth whitening (this usually causes temporary sensitivity).

Sensitivity becomes more common as we get older because gums naturally recede over time.

What does it feel like?

You may notice:

• A sharp pain when eating or drinking hot or cold foods.
• Discomfort with sweet or acidic foods.
• Pain when brushing certain teeth.

The pain is usually short but can sometimes last longer.

How can I reduce tooth sensitivity?

You can often manage sensitivity at home.

• Use a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth every day.
• Spit out after brushing but do not rinse with water.
• At night, rub a small amount of sensitive toothpaste onto the painful area and leave it on.
• Use a soft toothbrush.
• Brush gently using small circular movements.
• Wait at least 1 hour after eating or drinking acidic foods before brushing.
• Try to reduce acidic and sugary drinks.

Sensitive toothpastes work by blocking the tiny channels in dentine. You need to keep using them to maintain the effect.

When should I see a dentist?

See a dentist if:

• The pain is severe.
• Sensitivity lasts more than a few weeks.
• Only one tooth is affected.
• The pain comes on suddenly.

These could be signs of tooth decay, a cracked tooth, gum problems or infection.

A dentist may:

• Apply a desensitising treatment to the tooth.
• Recommend a high-fluoride toothpaste.
• Place a filling over worn areas near the gumline.
• Treat gum disease or other causes.

Sensitive teeth are common, but they are not something you just have to live with.

With the right care and advice, symptoms can usually be controlled.

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