One sip of hot coffee. A spoonful of ice cream. A breath of cold air. Any of these sends a sharp pain shooting through your tooth.
That is sensitive teeth. And it is more common than you think. Millions of people in the UK experience this pain every day.
What Is Actually Happening
Inside every tooth is a layer called dentine. It contains tiny tubes that lead to the nerve.
When your enamel wears down or your gums recede, these tubes become exposed. Hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods reach the nerve directly. That is what causes the sharp, sudden pain.
Common Causes of Sensitive Teeth
Enamel erosion is a big one. If you brush too hard, eat a lot of acidic food, or have acid reflux, your enamel thins over time.
Gum recession exposes the root surfaces of your teeth. The roots do not have enamel protection, so they are much more sensitive.
Cracked teeth can also cause sensitivity. A crack lets stimuli reach the nerve more easily.
Teeth whitening treatments sometimes cause temporary sensitivity. This usually fades after a few days.
What You Can Do About It
Use a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. These toothpastes block the tiny tubes in the dentine. They take a few weeks to work fully.
Brush gently with a soft-bristled brush. Hard brushing makes everything worse.
Avoid acidic foods and drinks between meals. And wait an hour before brushing after eating acid — your enamel is softened temporarily and you can damage it.
When to See a Dentist
If your sensitivity is severe or does not improve, book an appointment. Your dentist can apply a protective coating or recommend other treatments.
Do not ignore the pain. It is your body telling you something is wrong.
Call 01323 723757 or book at www.meadsdental.com
Meads Village Dental Practice