Sensitive Teeth: Causes, Treatments & Relief

Do you wince when you sip a hot coffee or feel a sharp jolt when enjoying an ice cream? If so, you’re not alone. Sensitive teeth, or dentine hypersensitivity, is a remarkably common issue, affecting millions worldwide. It can turn simple pleasures into painful experiences and often leaves people wondering why their teeth are suddenly so sensitive.

At VitaSmile, London’s first Brazilian dental clinic with 9 years of experience, we understand the discomfort and concern that sensitive teeth can bring. Our patient-focused approach, combined with our bilingual English and Portuguese service, ensures that everyone in our diverse London community – including our valued Brazilian and Latin American patients – receives the understanding and expert care they deserve. We’re here to help you uncover the root cause of your dental sensitivity and find lasting relief.

What Causes Sensitive Teeth? Understanding the Triggers

Sensitive teeth occur when the underlying layer of your tooth, called the dentine, becomes exposed. Dentine contains thousands of microscopic tubules that lead to the tooth’s nerve. When these tubules are exposed, external stimuli like hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks can reach the nerve, causing that characteristic sharp, sudden pain.

Several factors can lead to this exposure. Here are some of the most common:

Worn Enamel

Your tooth enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth. Over time, enamel can wear down due to aggressive brushing, acidic foods and drinks, or even teeth grinding. Once the enamel is thinned or lost, the dentine beneath becomes exposed.

Gum Recession

Gums protect the roots of your teeth. When gums recede, the root surface – which is not covered by enamel but by a softer material called cementum – becomes exposed. This area is highly sensitive to temperature changes and touch. Gum recession can be caused by periodontal disease (gum disease), aggressive brushing, or even genetic predisposition.

Tooth Decay or Cavities

A cavity is a hole in your tooth caused by decay. As decay progresses, it can expose the sensitive dentine, leading to pain, especially when consuming sweet or cold items. Untreated cavities can lead to more serious problems, so prompt treatment is essential.

Cracked or Chipped Teeth

A crack or chip in a tooth can expose the dentine or even reach the pulp (the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels). This can cause intermittent pain, particularly when biting down or exposing the tooth to temperature changes.

Clenching or Grinding (Bruxism)

Many people unknowingly clench or grind their teeth, often while sleeping. This habit, known as bruxism, puts excessive pressure on your teeth, leading to enamel wear and even small cracks, both of which can contribute to sensitive teeth.

Acidic Foods and Drinks

Regular consumption of highly acidic foods and drinks – such as citrus fruits, fizzy drinks, and some fruit juices – can erode tooth enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to sensitivity over time.

Aggressive Brushing

Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel and contribute to gum recession, both of which are major culprits behind sensitive teeth.

Recent Dental Procedures

It’s not uncommon to experience temporary tooth sensitivity after certain dental treatments, such as fillings, crowns, or teeth whitening. This usually subsides within a few days or weeks as your teeth recover.

When to Seek Professional Help for Sensitive Teeth

While occasional mild sensitivity might resolve with a change in toothpaste, persistent or severe pain should always prompt a visit to your dentist. Sensitive teeth can be a symptom of a more serious underlying issue that requires professional attention. Self-diagnosing can delay necessary treatment and potentially worsen the problem.

At VitaSmile, our experienced team will conduct a thorough examination to accurately diagnose the cause of your dental sensitivity. We’ll discuss your symptoms in detail, ensuring you feel heard and understood, whether you prefer to converse in English or Portuguese.

Effective Treatments for Sensitive Teeth at VitaSmile

Once the cause of your sensitive teeth is identified, our dentists at VitaSmile can recommend a tailored treatment plan to alleviate your discomfort and protect your oral health. Our comprehensive range of services means we can address virtually any cause of sensitivity.

Desensitising Toothpastes

These toothpastes contain compounds that help block the tiny tubules in the dentine, preventing stimuli from reaching the nerve. Consistent use over several weeks is key to seeing results.

Fluoride Treatments

Applied by your dentist, professional fluoride treatments can strengthen tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity. We offer in-clinic fluoride varnishes that provide a higher concentration than over-the-counter products.

Dental Fillings, Crowns, or Bonding

If decay, chips, cracks, or severe enamel wear are causing your sensitivity, a composite filling, crown, or dental bonding can restore the tooth’s structure and cover exposed dentine.

Gum Grafts

For significant gum recession, a gum graft may be recommended. This procedure involves taking a small piece of gum tissue from another area of your mouth or using donor tissue to cover exposed tooth roots, protecting them from sensitivity.

Root Canal Treatment

In cases where severe sensitivity is caused by damage or infection deep within the tooth’s pulp, a root canal treatment may be necessary to remove the infected tissue and save the tooth.

Customised Treatment Plans

Every patient is unique. Our dentists at VitaSmile take the time to create a personalised plan that addresses your specific needs, always prioritising your comfort and long-term oral health. We believe in explaining every step in plain language, ensuring you’re fully informed and confident in your treatment choices.

Preventing Sensitive Teeth: Daily Habits for a Healthier Smile

Prevention is always better than cure. Incorporating these simple habits into your daily routine can significantly reduce your risk of developing sensitive teeth:

• Brush Gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush with gentle, circular motions. Avoid aggressive scrubbing.
• Use Desensitising Toothpaste: Make it your regular toothpaste.
• Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks: Reduce your consumption of items known to erode enamel. When you do consume them, consider rinsing your mouth with water afterwards.
• Wear a Night Guard: If you clench or grind your teeth, a custom-fitted night guard from VitaSmile can protect your enamel and prevent further wear.
• Maintain Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular examinations and professional hygiene appointments at VitaSmile are crucial for detecting and addressing potential issues like gum disease or enamel wear before they lead to severe sensitivity.

Your Trusted Partner for Dental Health in London

For 9 years, VitaSmile has been a cornerstone of dental care in London, proudly serving the Brazilian, Latin American, and wider English-speaking communities. Our commitment to providing warm, professional, and trustworthy care makes us more than just a dental clinic – we’re part of your family’s health journey.

We believe that excellent dental care should be accessible. That’s why we offer flexible finance and payment plans to help manage the cost of private dental treatments, ensuring you can receive the care you need without undue financial stress. Our bilingual team is always ready to assist you, making your experience as comfortable and reassuring as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sensitive Teeth

Is sensitive teeth a serious problem?

While often benign, sensitive teeth can sometimes indicate an underlying issue like a cavity, gum disease, or a cracked tooth that requires professional attention. It’s always best to have persistent sensitivity checked by a dentist to rule out more serious conditions.

Can sensitive teeth go away on its own?

Sometimes, mild sensitivity can improve with changes in oral hygiene (like using a desensitising toothpaste). However, if the sensitivity is due to an underlying problem like gum recession or a cavity, it will likely persist and may worsen without professional treatment.

How quickly do desensitising toothpastes work?

Desensitising toothpastes typically require consistent use for several weeks (usually 2-4 weeks) before you notice a significant reduction in sensitivity. They work by gradually blocking the dentinal tubules.

What should I avoid if I have sensitive teeth?

You should try to avoid very hot, very cold, very sweet, or highly acidic foods and drinks, as these are common triggers for sensitive teeth. Additionally, avoid aggressive brushing and consider switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Don’t let sensitive teeth dictate what you can and cannot enjoy. Take the first step towards a comfortable, pain-free smile. Our friendly and professional team at VitaSmile is here to help.

Contact VitaSmile today to book your consultation and discover personalised solutions for your sensitive teeth. Call us on 020 388 09877 or send a message via WhatsApp on 07848 958 312. We look forward to welcoming you!

This article is for general information only and does not constitute dental or medical advice. Individual treatment needs vary; always book a consultation with a GDC-registered dentist at VitaSmile for advice tailored to you.