Sensitive Teeth

What are sensitive teeth?

Sensitivity of teeth is one of the most common clinical conditions encountered in dental practice worldwide. It can have a significant impact on the quality of life of affected persons if not managed and treated properly.

Dentine hypersensitivity is characterised by short sharp pain from exposed dentine. It occurs in response to stimulation from cold, heat, touch, acids and cannot be explained by any other dental disease or defect.

The necks of the teeth near the gum margins are the most commonly affected areas, especially in the front incisor and premolar regions.

Who suffers from sensitive teeth?

Many people suffer from sensitive teeth and it can start at any time. It is more common in people aged between 20 and 40, although it can affect people in their early teens and when they are over 70. Women are more likely to be affected than men.

What causes sensitive teeth?

The part of the tooth we can see has a layer of enamel that protects the softer dentine underneath. If the dentine is exposed, a tooth can become sensitive. This usually happens where the tooth and the gum meet and the enamel layer is much thinner. Here are some causes of sensitivity:

• Brushing too hard (‘toothbrush abrasion'), and brushing from side to side, can cause enamel to be worn away - particularly where the teeth meet the gums. The freshly exposed dentine may then become sensitive.
• Dental erosion: this is loss of tooth enamel caused by attacks of acid from acidic food and drinks. If enamel is worn away, the dentine underneath is exposed which may lead to sensitivity. Gums may naturally recede (shrink back), and the roots of the teeth will become exposed and can be more sensitive. Root surfaces do not have an enamel layer to protect them.
• Gums may naturally recede (shrink back), and the roots of the teeth will become exposed and can be more sensitive. Root surfaces do not have an enamel layer to protect them.
• Gum disease: a build-up of plaque or tartar can cause the gum to recede down the tooth and even destroy the bony support of the tooth. Pockets can form in the gums around the tooth, making the area difficult to keep clean and the problem worse.
• Tooth grinding: this is a habit which involves clenching and grinding the teeth together. This can cause the enamel of the teeth to be worn away, making the teeth sensitive.
• A cracked tooth or filling: a cracked tooth is one that has become broken.
• Tooth bleaching: some patients have sensitivity for a short time during bleaching or afterwards. Talk to your dentist about this before having treatment.

When are teeth more likely to be sensitive?

You are more likely to feel the sensitivity when drinking or eating something cold, from cold air catching your teeth, and sometimes with hot foods or drinks. Some people have sensitivity when they have sweet or acidic food and drinks. The pain can come and go, with some times being worse than others.

Is there anything I should avoid if I have sensitive teeth?

You may find that hot, cold, sweet or acidic drinks, or foods like ice cream, can bring on sensitivity, so you may want to avoid these. If you have sensitivity when brushing your teeth with cold water from the tap, you may need to use warm water instead. It is important to keep brushing your teeth regularly - if you don't, this could make the problem worse.

Do I need to go and see my dentist?

Yes, if you have tried treating your sensitive teeth for a few weeks and have had no improvement. We would suggest using a toothpaste for sensitivity such as Sensodyne or Colgate Sensitive. Try to use as little water as possible when brushing and when you are finished just spit out, don’t rinse with water at the end. If the sensitivity has not settled after 2-3 weeks then come in to see us.