Dentine Hypersensitivity

Last updated: 20th February 2024

Dentine hypersensitivity, or ‘sensitive teeth’ is a widespread dental condition characterised by discomfort or pain in the teeth when encountering certain stimuli, such as cold, hot, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.

If you suffer from sensitive teeth, you must understand what is causing it and how to manage it as it can impact your oral health as well as your social life too.

Some sensitivity can be caused by minor factors, whilst other sensitivities can be caused by dental issues that require addressing. In this guide, we will go over everything you need to know about sensitive teeth and address any questions you may have.

If you want to speak to one of our online dentists about sensitive teeth, you can start your free online consultation by clicking here.

What is Dentine Hypersensitivity?

Dentine hypersensitivity is a condition where your tooth reacts to certain stimuli (such as hold and cold things), leading to pain or discomfort.

This differs from other types of toothache that it is specifically triggered by dental diseases such as decay, trauma, infections and cavities.

A normal healthy tooth contains three main layers

The central pulp which contains the nerve and blood supply to the tooth
The Dentine layer which is soft and makes up for the bulk of the tooth
The Enamel layer which is tough, hard and does not contain any nerve endings or feeling.

Normally, the enamel layer of the tooth will protect the dentine and nerve from any temperature changes and stimuli that can lead to pain or sensitivity. laso your gums will cover over the roots of your teeth preventing them from becoming exposed.

However, if these protective layers become damaged or for several other reasons your dentine becomes hypersensitive, then you can start experiencing sensitivity in your teeth and the dentine layers get exposed to the environment of the mouth.

Causes of Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive teeth can result from various factors that expose the dentine or cause the gumline to recede. Understanding these causes can help in preventing and managing dentine hypersensitivity effectively.

Enamel Erosion

Enamel erosion is a common cause of sensitive teeth. This hard protective layer can wear away due to:

Acidic Foods and Drinks: Frequent consumption of high-acid foods and beverages, like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and carbonated drinks, can erode enamel over time making the enamel layer thinner.
Brushing too hard: Brushing too hard with a manual toothbrush or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel and lead to dentine exposure.

Gum Recession

Gum recession exposes the root surfaces of your teeth, which are not covered by enamel and are more sensitive:

Periodontal Disease: Infections and inflammation of the gums can lead to their recession, exposing the roots of the teeth.
Incorrect Brushing Technique: Brushing too hard or incorrectly can also push the gums back, exposing the sensitive root surface.

Read about how to clean your teeth with the proper techniques here

Dental Procedures

Certain dental procedures can temporarily increase tooth sensitivity:

Teeth Whitening: Chemicals used in the whitening process can penetrate the dentine and irritate the nerve.
Fillings and Crowns: Dental restorations may lead to sensitivity, especially if the dentine is exposed during the procedure or the restoration is not adequately sealing the dentine of your tooth.

Cracked Teeth or Fillings

Physical damage to the tooth or its restorations can also lead to sensitivity:

Trauma: Impact or injury can crack teeth, exposing the dentine.
Wear and Tear: Over time, teeth and existing dental fillings may wear down, crack, or chip, leading to sensitivity.

Symptoms of Sensitive Teeth

The primary symptom of dentine hypersensitivity is a sudden, sharp pain or discomfort in the teeth in response to certain triggers. Recognising these symptoms is crucial for identifying and managing sensitive teeth effectively.

Common Triggers of dentine hypersensitivity:

Cold foods and beverages, like ice cream or chilled drinks.
Hot foods and beverages, which can cause a sudden spike in pain.
Sweet or acidic foods and drinks, which can aggravate the exposed dentine.
Physical stimuli, such as brushing, flossing, or even exposure to cold air.

Recognising Sensitive Teeth

It's important to differentiate the pain of sensitive teeth from other dental discomforts. The pain from sensitivity is usually sharp and sudden but short-lived, occurring specifically in response to a trigger and going away once the stimulus is removed.

If your pain is lingering and lasting for a few seconds or minutes after the stimulus, then there is a high chance that you have a cavity or decay on your tooth.

Understanding these symptoms and their triggers can help in accurately diagnosing dentine hypersensitivity and distinguishing it from other dental issues that may require different treatments.

Diagnosing Sensitive Teeth

When experiencing symptoms of dentine hypersensitivity, it's important to consult a dentist for a proper diagnosis. This section will outline what to expect during a dental examination for sensitive teeth.

Make sure you do not leave any sensitivity, no matter how mild, unchecked.

When to See a Dentist

If you're experiencing sharp, sudden pain in response to common triggers like cold, hot, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, it's time to see a dentist. Additionally, if the sensitivity persists or interferes with your daily life, seeking professional advice is crucial.

Make sure you speak to a dentist as soon as you feel any changes in your mouth. Finding issues early means that you will experience less pain, and the treatment will be less invasive and cheaper too.

What to Expect During the Examination

Medical and Dental History: Your dentist will begin by taking a comprehensive medical and dental history to understand any underlying conditions or habits that might contribute to sensitivity.
Visual Examination: A thorough examination of your teeth and gums will be conducted to look for signs of enamel erosion, gum recession, cavities, or other dental issues that might be causing or contributing to your sensitivity.
Dental X-rays: In some cases, X-rays may be taken to get a closer look at the health of your teeth and roots, identifying any hidden problems beneath the gum line.
Sensitivity Tests: Your dentist might also conduct tests to pinpoint the exact teeth and areas that are sensitive. This can involve gently exposing the teeth to stimuli like cold air or touch to replicate the sensitivity.

This thorough examination helps in ruling out other dental issues and confirming the diagnosis of dentine hypersensitivity, leading to appropriate treatment recommendations.

Remember to keep a mental (or written) log of:

How often you feel the sensitivity
What specifically triggers it
How long it lasts
What is feels like

Treatment of Sensitive Teeth

Managing dentine hypersensitivity involves a combination of at-home care and professional treatments aimed at reducing pain and protecting the teeth from further exposure and damage.

At-Home Care

Several measures can be taken at home to alleviate sensitivity and prevent its escalation:

Desensitising Toothpaste: These toothpastes contain compounds that help block the small tubes in your enamel and dentine and protect the nerve of your teeth from becoming sensitive. Regular use can gradually reduce sensitivity. We recommend using Sensodyne Repair and Protect or Sensodyne Rapid Relief.
Electric Toothbrushes: Using an electric toothbrush is much better for your teeth as you can let the movements of the brush do the work instead of vigorous scrubbing which can be harmful to your teeth. We recommend getting one with a pressure sensor. See our list of recommended toothbrushes here.
Fluoride Rinses: Over-the-counter fluoride mouthwashes can help strengthen tooth enamel and reduce pain. It's important to follow the instructions on the label and use these products as directed. Avoid using mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
Dental serums: There are several pastes and serums that you can use to fight sensitivity and one of our favourite ones that our patients love is Tooth Mousse. You use it as a topical ointment at a separate time to when you brush your teeth.

Professional Treatments

If at-home care is not sufficient, your dentist may recommend professional treatments:

Fluoride Gel or Varnish: Applied directly to the sensitive areas of your teeth, these treatments can strengthen enamel and dentine, reducing sensitivity.
Bonding, Crowns, or Inlays: If sensitivity is due to a flaw or decay in a tooth, your dentist might apply a bonding resin or recommend a crown or inlay to cover and protect the exposed dentine.
Surgical Gum Graft: If gum tissue has been lost from the root, a gum graft can protect the root and reduce sensitivity.
Root Canal: In severe cases where other treatments can't relieve sensitivity, a root canal may be considered as a last resort to eliminate the problem.

The appropriate treatment for sensitive teeth depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Your dentist will recommend the best course of action based on your specific situation.

Preventing Dentine Hypersensitivity

Preventing dentine hypersensitivity involves adopting practices that protect the enamel and gums, thereby reducing the likelihood of dentine exposure. Here are key strategies for prevention:

Proper Oral Hygiene Practices: Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. This includes brushing gently but effectively twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily to remove plaque and prevent gum disease.
Diet Modifications: Limiting the intake of acidic foods and drinks can help prevent enamel erosion. When consuming acidic items, it's advisable to do so with meals rather than alone and to rinse the mouth with water afterwards to neutralise the acids.
Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular visits to the dentist for check-ups and cleanings are essential for maintaining oral health and catching potential problems early. Your dentist can also provide advice tailored to your specific needs and help you develop an effective oral care routine.

By incorporating these preventative measures into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing dentine hypersensitivity and maintain a healthy, comfortable smile.

When to Seek Professional Help

While some degree of tooth sensitivity can be managed with at-home care, there are situations where professional intervention is necessary:

Persistent Symptoms: If sensitivity does not improve with the use of desensitising toothpaste or other at-home measures within a few weeks, it's important to consult a dentist. Persistent sensitivity could be a sign of an underlying issue that needs professional treatment.
Severe Pain: If the sensitivity is severe enough to interfere with your daily life, such as preventing you from eating or drinking comfortably, professional evaluation is crucial to identify and address the root cause of the pain.
Signs of Infection: If you experience signs of infection, such as swelling, redness, pus, or a bad taste in your mouth, along with tooth sensitivity, seek dental care immediately. These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition, such as an abscess, which requires prompt treatment.

Visiting a dentist at the first sign of persistent or severe sensitivity ensures that any underlying problems can be addressed early, preventing further damage and potentially more invasive treatments later on.

Living with Sensitive Teeth

Managing dentine hypersensitivity and maintaining oral health require some lifestyle adjustments. These changes can help minimise discomfort and prevent the condition from worsening:

Modify Your Diet: Limit the consumption of extremely hot, cold, acidic, or sugary foods and drinks, as these can trigger sensitivity. Opt for lukewarm beverages and less acidic foods to reduce discomfort.
Change Your Oral Hygiene Routine: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques to avoid further enamel erosion and gum recession. Consider incorporating a fluoride mouthwash and desensitising toothpaste into your daily routine.
Be Mindful of Teeth Grinding: If you grind your teeth, consider speaking with your dentist about a mouth guard to protect your teeth from further damage.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water, especially after consuming acidic or sugary foods or drinks, can help wash away harmful substances and reduce the risk of enamel erosion.
Use Straws: When consuming acidic or sugary beverages, using a straw can help minimise contact with your teeth, reducing the risk of sensitivity and erosion.

Long-term Outlook

With proper management, individuals with sensitive teeth can lead comfortable lives without significant dietary or lifestyle restrictions. Regular dental visits are crucial for monitoring the condition and making any necessary adjustments to treatment. While sensitivity may not completely disappear, it can be effectively managed with the right combination of at-home care and professional dental treatments.

FAQs about Sensitive Teeth

If you have a specific question about sensitive teeth, please get in touch with one of our online dentists here.

Why do my teeth suddenly become sensitive?

Sudden sensitivity can be due to enamel wear, gum recession, a cracked tooth, or recent dental procedures, among other causes. Identifying the specific trigger is key to effective management.

Can tooth sensitivity go away on its own?

While some cases of sensitivity may improve with proper oral hygiene and the use of desensitising products, persistent or severe sensitivity often requires professional treatment.

Is sensitivity a sign of a cavity?

Not always. While cavities can cause tooth pain and sensitivity, not all sensitivity is due to cavities. It's important to have a dentist evaluate your symptoms to determine the cause.

Can brushing too hard cause sensitive teeth?

Yes, using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing too vigorously can wear away enamel and gum tissue, leading to sensitivity.

Are there any foods or drinks I should avoid?

Yes, acidic and sugary foods and drinks can exacerbate tooth sensitivity and contribute to enamel erosion. Limiting these and following up with water or a fluoride rinse can help.

How can I prevent sensitive teeth?

Good oral hygiene, using a soft-bristled electric toothbrush, avoiding acidic foods and drinks, and regular dental check-ups are key to preventing sensitivity.

Conclusion

Dentine hypersensitivity is a manageable condition that need not significantly impact your quality of life. Recognising the importance of addressing sensitive teeth is the first step toward alleviating discomfort and maintaining good oral health. If you're experiencing tooth sensitivity, take action by adopting preventive measures and consulting with a dental professional for personalised advice and treatment options.