Sensitive Teeth Explained: Causes, Remedies, and Tips for Lasting Relief

Sensitive teeth can be caused by a number of factors, including brushing too hard, grinding teeth, receding gums and gum disease (periodontitis or inflammation).

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Tooth sensitivity is caused by the gradual exposure of the inner anatomy of your tooth called dentine. No longer protected by enamel, the dentine is exposed and produces sensations when eating or drinking cold, hot or sweet foods. The dentine is made up of tiny tubules that send messages to the nerve endings in your teeth and cause a reaction – triggering a twinge of discomfort or short, sharp pain.

Treating Sensitive Teeth

It is always best to have your sensitive teeth checked by your dentist or hygienist to eliminate active decay and establish the reason for the sensitivity. Often the use of desensitising products and toothpaste can elevate the symptoms you will be experiencing. Your dentist and hygienist can also provide dietary advice, brushing techniques, or information about grinding to help reduce the symptoms.

Sensitive Teeth Caused by Teeth Whitening

Sensitivity can occur in some individuals after a teeth whitening treatment but this is always short term and has no lasting effect if the teeth were checked prior to whitening by the dentist to ensure there were no dental issues that required fixing.

Sensitive Teeth Caused by Sports Drinks & Fruit Juice

Sensitive teeth is becoming more of an issue for patients as we see an increase in the use of sports drinks which are acidic, and also the consumption of large amounts of fruit juice as an everyday beverage rather than occasionally.

Preventing Sensitive Teeth

We also understand now that people live to a ripe old age and their teeth have to last for a very long time. Luckily with modern dentistry and regular hygiene visits, in addition to at home care with a number of fantastic desensitising agents we can really make a difference to the amount of sensitivity people experience.

Ready to take action?

For more information about sensitive teeth and the remedies for lasting relief, call or book online today!