That sudden, sharp jolt from a sip of cold water or a spoon of ice cream is something many people live with for years. It is common, and in most cases there is a clear cause and a way to ease it.
Why do teeth become sensitive?
Under the hard enamel lies dentine, which contains thousands of tiny channels leading to the nerve. When enamel thins or gums recede and expose the root, hot, cold, sweet or acidic things reach those channels and cause a quick, sharp pain.
Common causes
- Brushing too hard or with a hard brush, which wears enamel and pushes gums back
- Gum recession exposing the softer root surface
- Acid erosion from fizzy drinks, citrus, vomiting or acid reflux
- Cavities and worn or leaking fillings
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Teeth grinding, which wears enamel (see bruxism)
- Recent whitening or dental treatment, which usually settles within days
What helps at home
- Switch to a soft brush and light pressure. Revisit your brushing technique.
- Use a desensitising toothpaste twice a day. Dab a little on the sensitive area before bed.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste, as explained in our toothpaste guide.
- Cut down on acidic drinks, or drink them through a straw and rinse with water afterwards.
- Avoid very hot and very cold items for a while.
When to see a dentist
See a dentist if sensitivity affects one tooth, lasts more than a couple of weeks, wakes you at night, or comes with lingering pain after the hot or cold is gone. These may be signs of a cavity, a crack or nerve inflammation. Treatments range from a fluoride varnish to a filling, bonding or, if the nerve is damaged, a root canal treatment.
Preventing sensitivity
Brush gently, treat grinding with a night guard, limit acidic foods and keep up with check-ups. Early attention to gum recession protects the exposed root surfaces. Our general dentistry team can find the cause and suggest the right treatment.