What Causes Sensitive Teeth?
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the inner layer of your tooth — known as dentin — becomes exposed. Dentin contains tiny tubules that lead to the nerve of the tooth. When these tubules are no longer protected by enamel or gum tissue, everyday stimuli such as temperature changes or certain foods can reach the nerve and cause a sharp, temporary discomfort.
Enamel wear and gum recession are the two most common reasons dentin becomes exposed. Enamel can thin over time due to dietary habits, grinding, or brushing technique, while gums may recede as a result of gum disease, ageing, or overly aggressive brushing. Once the protective barrier is compromised, sensitivity can develop gradually or appear quite suddenly.
Common Triggers
People with sensitive teeth often notice discomfort in response to specific stimuli, including:
- Hot food and drinks — such as tea, coffee, or soup
- Cold food and drinks — including ice cream, chilled water, or cold beverages
- Sweet or acidic foods — such as citrus fruits, soft drinks, or lollies
- Brushing or flossing — particularly if using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing with too much pressure
- Cold air — breathing in through the mouth on a cold day can trigger a sharp sensation
If you experience discomfort from any of these triggers on a regular basis, it may be worth having your teeth assessed to identify the underlying cause.
What Can Lead to Tooth Sensitivity?
A number of factors can contribute to the development of sensitive teeth. Some of the more common causes include:
- Worn enamel — gradual thinning of the tooth's outer protective layer through everyday wear or dietary erosion
- Receding gums — gum tissue pulling back from the tooth, exposing the root surface which lacks enamel protection
- Tooth grinding (bruxism) — clenching or grinding can wear down enamel and place excessive pressure on teeth
- Cracked or chipped teeth — fractures in the tooth can allow stimuli to reach the nerve directly
- Recent dental work — some sensitivity after procedures such as fillings, crowns, or whitening is normal and typically temporary
- Acidic diet — frequent consumption of acidic foods and beverages can erode enamel over time
- Aggressive brushing — using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing with excessive force can wear enamel and irritate gums
Home Care Tips for Sensitive Teeth
There are several steps you can take at home to help manage tooth sensitivity:
- Use a desensitising toothpaste — these contain compounds that help block sensation from travelling to the nerve. Use consistently for several weeks to notice a difference.
- Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush — this reduces wear on enamel and is gentler on gum tissue
- Avoid acidic foods and drinks — limit consumption of citrus, soft drinks, and other acidic items, and rinse your mouth with water after consuming them
- Brush gently — use light pressure and small circular motions rather than a hard scrubbing action
These measures can help reduce discomfort, but if sensitivity persists or worsens, a professional assessment is recommended to identify and address the cause.
Professional Treatment at Divine Dental Care
At our Croydon clinic, we take a thorough approach to diagnosing and managing sensitive teeth. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause and may include:
- Fluoride varnish — applied to sensitive areas to help strengthen enamel and reduce transmission of sensation to the nerve
- Desensitising agents — professional-grade products applied in the clinic to help block exposed dentin tubules
- Dental bonding — a tooth-coloured resin can be applied to exposed root surfaces to provide a protective barrier
- Gum graft referral — in cases of significant gum recession, we may refer you to a specialist for gum grafting to restore coverage over exposed roots
- Treating underlying causes — if grinding, decay, or gum disease is contributing to sensitivity, we will work with you on a plan to address these issues directly
When to See a Dentist About Sensitive Teeth
If you experience ongoing sensitivity that does not improve with desensitising toothpaste and gentle brushing habits, it is worth having your teeth examined. Persistent or worsening sensitivity can sometimes indicate decay, a crack, or gum disease that may progress without treatment.
Contact Divine Dental Care in Croydon to arrange an appointment. Our team will work with you to identify the cause of your sensitivity and develop an appropriate care plan.
