That sharp zing when you sip something cold or bite into ice cream is one of the most common complaints we hear. Sensitive teeth are usually fixable once you know what is causing them. Here is what is going on and what to do about it.
Sensitivity happens when the protective enamel wears thin or the gum recedes, exposing the softer dentine underneath. Dentine contains tiny tubes that lead to the nerve, so hot, cold, sweet and acidic things trigger a quick jolt. Common causes are brushing too hard, acidic diets, grinding, gum recession and cracked or worn teeth.
Scrubbing hard with a firm brush, brushing straight after acidic food or drink, and frequent fizzy drinks, citrus or wine all wear enamel down. Grinding your teeth, often at night, also strips enamel and exposes dentine. Whitening products used too often can cause temporary sensitivity too.
Switch to a soft-bristled brush and a light touch, use a sensitive-teeth toothpaste with the mineral that plugs those dentine tubes, and give it a couple of weeks to build up. Wait an hour after acidic food before brushing, and cut back on how often you have acidic drinks rather than just how much.
If sensitivity is sharp, lingers, or is focused on one tooth, that can point to decay, a crack or a failing filling rather than general sensitivity, and it is worth getting checked. At a check-up we can find the cause and treat it directly, whether that is a filling, sealing exposed root surfaces, or a night guard for grinding.
In the chair we can apply fluoride varnish or desensitising agents, bond over exposed roots, replace worn fillings and treat the underlying cause. Most people get real relief once the right cause is dealt with.
Sudden sensitivity often comes from exposed dentine due to enamel wear or gum recession, but it can also signal decay, a crack or a recent filling. If it is sharp, lingers or is on one tooth, get it checked.
Yes, for many people. It contains minerals that block the tiny tubes leading to the nerve, but it needs consistent use over two to four weeks to build up, not a one-off application.
Often, yes. Once the cause is identified, treatments like fluoride varnish, bonding over exposed roots, replacing worn fillings or a night guard for grinding can resolve it or greatly reduce it.
Usually it is harmless enamel wear, but persistent or one-sided sensitivity can indicate decay or a cracked tooth. It is best to have a dentist check it rather than assume.