Tooth care
Why are my teeth sensitive, and what helps?
Sensitivity usually means enamel has thinned or gums have receded, exposing the softer dentine beneath. A soft brush, desensitising toothpaste and easing off acids help. If the zing turns sharp or lingers, come and see us.
What that sharp little zing is telling you
A sudden twinge with something hot, cold or sweet is usually the softer dentine beneath your enamel being a bit too easy to reach — because the enamel has worn thin or the gums have pulled back. From there, the tooth flinches at anything that touches that exposed layer.
The usual suspects are acidic food and drink, heavy-handed brushing, night-time grinding, gum disease, a hairline crack, plaque, or even recent dental work still settling down. Often it is a mix of a few, which is why it is worth finding the real cause rather than just soothing the symptom.
What actually helps
Switch to a soft brush and a desensitising toothpaste — and here is a trick worth trying: dab a smear onto the tender spot at bedtime and leave it there overnight. Ease off acidic foods and drinks, and if you grind in your sleep, a nightguard takes the pressure off.
We can also brush on a fluoride varnish or seal the vulnerable areas for you. If the pain turns sharp, wakes you, or simply won't quit, come in so we can find the why — sharp, lingering sensitivity can point to something that needs treating.
Common questions
Does sensitive toothpaste actually work?
For many people, yes — used daily it calms the nerve response over a couple of weeks. Dabbing a smear on the tender spot at bedtime and leaving it overnight helps it work harder.
When should I get sensitivity checked?
If the pain is sharp, lingers after the trigger is gone, wakes you at night, or focuses on one tooth, come in. That pattern can signal decay, a crack or nerve trouble.