Tooth sensitivity is common, and it’s often fixable. The issue is that “sensitive teeth” isn’t a single diagnosis. It’s a symptom, and different causes need different treatment. One person needs a toothpaste change. Another needs a gum plan. Another needs a crack assessment.

This guide explains the common causes, what you can try at home, and when sensitivity is a warning sign.

Key Takeaways:

• Sensitivity is a symptom, not a diagnosis.
• Generalised sensitivity often responds to home changes.
• Sensitivity in one tooth needs assessment, especially if it’s worsening.
• We can treat sensitivity in-chair when home strategies aren’t enough.

The Classic Sensitivity Patterns

Sensitivity usually feels like a short, sharp pain triggered by cold air, cold water, sweet foods, or brushing. If the pain lingers for a long time after cold, wakes you at night, or is associated with biting pain, that’s a different category and should be checked promptly.

Common Causes of Sensitivity

1) Gum recession

When gums recede, root surfaces become exposed. Roots are naturally more sensitive than enamel. Recession can be caused by aggressive brushing, gum disease, clenching/grinding, or genetics. Signs that point to recession-related sensitivity:

• Sensitivity near the gumline
• Teeth looking “longer”
• Sensitivity when brushing that area

2) Enamel wear and erosion

Acidic drinks, reflux, frequent snacking, and even “healthy” habits like constant lemon water can wear enamel. Once enamel thins, sensitivity often increases.

3) Tooth grinding and bite overload

Grinding can cause micro-wear and cracks. If sensitivity is paired with pain on biting or pain on release, a crack may be involved.

4) Whitening products

Whitening can temporarily increase sensitivity. This is common and usually settles, but if it’s severe or persistent, your dentist should review the plan.

5) Decay or leaking restorations

Sometimes the first sign of decay or a failing filling is sensitivity. If one tooth becomes suddenly sensitive, don’t assume it’s “just sensitivity.”

What You Can Do At Home

These are the highest-value changes:

• Use a desensitising toothpaste consistently for at least 2-4 weeks.
• Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and avoid scrubbing at the gumline.
• Reduce frequent acidic sipping (soft drinks, sports drinks, kombucha, lemon water).
• Avoid overusing harsh mouthwashes that dry the mouth.

In-Chair Treatments We May Recommend

If home strategies aren’t enough, treatment depends on the cause. Options can include:

• Professional fluoride treatments
• Sealing exposed root surfaces
• Treating gum inflammation
• Bite assessment and night guard planning for grinding
• Restorations if there is decay, a defect, or a crack

When Sensitivity is a Warning Sign

Book promptly if you have:

• Lingering pain after cold
• Spontaneous pain
• Pain that wakes you at night
• Pain on biting or release
• Swelling or a gum boil

 

Frequently Asked Questions