Sensitive Teeth in Rochedale South
Does a sip of cold water make you wince? Or perhaps ice cream, hot coffee or something sweet suddenly sets off a sharp feeling in one or more teeth. Tooth sensitivity is common, but when it keeps happening, it’s worth finding out why.
At Dental Health Plus, we can examine sensitive teeth, look for the likely cause and discuss what, if anything, needs to be done.
Why Do Teeth Become Sensitive?
Beneath the hard enamel on the outside of a tooth is a layer called dentine. Dentine contains tiny channels that lead towards the centre of the tooth. If enamel becomes worn or the tooth root is exposed, heat, cold and other triggers can reach these channels more easily, causing that familiar short, sharp sensation.
There isn’t just one reason this happens. Sensitivity may be related to:
- Worn or eroded enamel
- Gum recession and exposed tooth roots
- Tooth decay
- A chipped or cracked tooth
- Gum disease
- Clenching or grinding
- Brushing too firmly
- Temporary sensitivity following whitening or other dental treatment
What Tooth Wear Has to Do With It
Not all tooth wear looks the same. Some people develop small notches around the gumline from brushing too firmly. Grinding and clenching can flatten or chip teeth, while repeated acid exposure can gradually erode enamel.
You may notice a visible change before you notice sensitivity, or sensitivity may be the first sign that something has changed.
Finding the Right Treatment
for the Cause
Treatment depends on what we find during your examination. For mild sensitivity, your dentist may recommend a desensitising fluoride toothpaste, changes to your brushing technique or professional fluoride treatment.
If decay, gum problems or a damaged tooth is responsible, that issue may need to be addressed directly. For some worn areas or exposed surfaces, a tooth-coloured composite restoration may be an option to cover the area and replace lost tooth structure. You can read more about our white fillings and composite restorations.
If grinding or clenching is wearing your teeth, your dentist can also assess your bite and discuss ways to reduce further tooth wear.
Simple Ways to Look After
Sensitive Teeth
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid scrubbing hard around the gumline. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth each day.
It’s also a good idea to limit frequent acidic drinks and foods. After something particularly acidic, wait before brushing rather than reaching for your toothbrush straight away.
Most importantly, pay attention to changes. Sensitivity in one tooth, pain when biting, spontaneous pain, swelling, bleeding gums or sensitivity that keeps getting worse should be checked by a dentist.
Get to the Cause of Your Tooth Sensitivity
You don’t need to guess whether that twinge is from worn enamel, a cavity, gum recession or something else. An examination can help determine what’s behind it and whether treatment is needed.
If sensitive teeth are making you think twice about your morning coffee or favourite cold foods, contact Dental Health Plus to book an assessment.
Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.
